The Philadelphia 76ers may have just pulled off one of the smartest under-the-radar moves of the offseason. With the spotlight on stars and blockbuster trades, Philly quietly scooped up a versatile 24-year-old forward from a division rival, and he could turn out to be a perfect fit.
The Sixers are building something new around their core, which now features Baylor Bears standout VJ Edgecombe. Their latest addition, Trendon Watford, might help balance out their second unit in a big way.
76ers Add Trendon Watford To Boost Depth and Versatility in Second Unit
The 76ers are making quiet, strategic moves ahead of the NBA’s free agency window officially opening, and their latest deal could pay off in a big way. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Sixers have landed 24-year-old forward Trendon Watford on a two-year, $5.3 million deal. The Contract will be finalized on July 6, when signings across the league can officially begin.
Watford, who spent last season with the Brooklyn Nets, is expected to play a key role in the 76ers’ rotation. A power forward who can also slide into the center position, Watford averaged 10.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.6 assists across 44 games in 2024-25.
Free agent forward Trendon Watford has agreed to a two-year, $5.3 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell ESPN. Watford is set to play a potential key role in the 76ers rotation. pic.twitter.com/PH0ttFVfCO
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2025
His signing offers Philadelphia flexibility in their frontcourt, which already features a mix of established stars and new draft talent. With a projected starting lineup of Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Paul George, Justin Edwards, and Joel Embiid, the Sixers are leaning on a potent mix of experience and youth.
Watford’s Skillset Fills a Key Need on the 76ers Bench
Watford brings versatility, something the Sixers need. He’s not just a big man who can finish around the rim. Watford has developed into a crafty ball-handler and facilitator who can thrive in transition or initiate offense in short bursts.
That type of skill set should mesh well with Justin Edwards and swingman Kelly Oubre Jr. off the bench. Watford has the tools to run with the second unit as a point forward, especially when Embiid sits or when Edwards plays more on the wing. Expect him to take pressure off Maxey in non-starter lineups and help keep the ball moving.
With Edwards focusing on spacing the floor and Oubre cutting off the ball, Watford’s ability to direct traffic from the high post or initiate pick-and-roll actions could be a hidden weapon. He can also help protect the paint when paired with smaller lineups, giving head coach Nick Nurse more rotation options.
Besides, the Sixers recently declined Jared Butler’s $2.3 million team option for next season, freeing up a rotation spot that could very well go to Watford. While Butler was primarily used as a backup guard, the front office appears to be favoring positional flexibility, and Watford provides just that.
In fact, his ability to absorb multiple roles means he could serve as a stabilizing presence while players like VJ Edgecombe adjust to the league. Edgecombe, the No. 3 overall pick, is a high-upside player but still untested at the pro level. Watford can help smooth the transition by anchoring the second unit and providing a steady hand in both the frontcourt and backcourt roles.
