Don’t count on the Philadelphia 76ers to add a high-profile backup center in the coming days. As the Sixers work on finalizing their opening-night roster, the team doesn’t have the financial wiggle room to add another big man to fill the 15th spot on the roster.
That kind of move won’t come until December, at the earliest. For the time being, expect the Sixers to rely on a recovering Adem Bona, while potentially adding a center on a two-way contract.
It’s never too early to target
You can bet the 76ers are still getting their list of targets together for later additions, whether it’s through free agency or the trade market. On the eve of their preseason finale, the Sixers were tabbed as potential suitors for two different players: Jericho Sims and Moussa Cisse.
According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Simmons is a name to monitor, but it has to be noted that he’s currently getting trade buzz with the Los Angeles Lakers. In the coming days, the Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks could end up striking a deal, including a swap of Sims and Dalton Knecht. While that trade isn’t guaranteed to get done, there is typically fire where there is smoke.
When it comes to Cisse, the Dallas Mavericks big man was described as a “file away” candidate for Philly. He’s been discussed loosely as a trade candidate, and his future in Dallas is currently unclear.
As Fischer explained, Cisse’s availability hinges on what the Mavericks ultimately decide to do with their final roster spot. There should be clarity on that sooner rather than later.
Why Cisse makes sense for the Sixers
Big man depth is where the 76ers are weakest. Adem Bona is serviceable, but he’s still developing and has to prove he’s going to take a notable step forward in year three. Ariel Hukporti was expected to be a major helping hand this year, but he suffered a season-ending injury.
The 76ers are going to embrace some small-ball lineups, where they can utilize guys like LeBron James, Dean Wade, and possibly a combination of Jabari Walker and Dominick Barlow, but that might not be sustainable long-term. James and Wade need to be in position. Cisse is the prototypical size, yet brings athleticism to the table. He is a known shot-blocker and is considered an elite offensive rebounder in his limited action.
Last season, Cisse appeared in 38 games for the Mavericks, seeing the court for 13.9 minutes per game. He averaged 4.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks.
The Mavericks are paying Cisse $2.1 million for the 2026-2027 NBA season. He is on a non-guaranteed salary for next season, where he could collect $2.5 million. When December 15 rolls around, keep an eye on Cisse for the 76ers if they don’t make any changes at the five spot before then.
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