Following a buyout from the Charlotte Hornets, veteran guard Reggie Jackson is preparing to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers once he clears waivers, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
The announcement came just minutes after news broke that the veteran guard was being waived by the Charlotte Hornets, who had only acquired Jackson from the Denver Nuggets a week ago (along with Josh Green and two second-round picks).
Jackson played in all 82 of Denver’s games last season, starting in 23 of them. In 22 minutes of action per night, the 32-year-old put up 10.2 points, 3.8 assists, and 1.9 rebounds. As the Sixers are up over the cap, Jackson will sign for the veteran minimum.
It’s also notable that Jackson has been a longtime teammate of Paul George, playing 170 games together. George has been rumored to be recruiting since signing with Philadelphia, but that’s yet to be confirmed.
While the move adds another dynamic, experienced veteran to the Sixers’ backcourt depth, it is not one many expected the Sixers to make. Jackson joins Eric Gordon, Kyle Lowry, and Jared McCain on a team that’s now potentially oversaturated with backup guards who are 6’3” and below. Considering the Sixers’ general lack of size, it’s likely the team will run three-guard lineups to begin the season.
The Sixers may not have the level of height they’re used to outside of Joel Embiid, but they seem to be ramping up their athleticism. For a team that’s lost in the playoffs the last few years to smaller, quicker teams like the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics, the gear switch may not be such a bad idea.
Philadelphia now has two roster spots remaining, though they may enter the season with 14 players on standard contracts.
