Kelly Oubre Jr. to Return to Philadelphia 76ers by Exercising Player Option

Philadelphia 76ers forward Kelly Oubre Jr. has decided to exercise his $8.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season, as reported on Sunday. This move ensures his continued presence with the team after signing a two-year, $16.3 million contract prior to the 2024-25 season.

Oubre's tenure with the Sixers began in the 2023-24 season when he joined on a one-year deal. The upcoming season marks his third year with the franchise, where he has made a significant impact.

During the last season, Oubre showcased his skills by averaging 15.1 points and 6.1 rebounds per game, while maintaining an impressive shooting percentage of 47% from the field. He participated in 60 games, starting in 57 of them, although he was sidelined for the final month due to a right knee injury.

In contrast, the Sixers opted not to retain Lonnie Walker IV, declining his $2.9 million team option for next season. Walker, who hails from Reading, Pennsylvania, will enter free agency after averaging 12.4 points in 20 games last season, including seven starts.

Meanwhile, veteran guard Eric Gordon has chosen to decline his $3.4 million player option for the upcoming season. At 36 years old, he will also become a free agent, although reports suggest that a return to the Sixers remains a possibility.

Last season, Gordon played in 39 games, contributing an average of 6.8 points and shooting 40.9% from beyond the arc.

Following a busy offseason in 2024 that saw the acquisition of Paul George, the Sixers are expected to take a more subdued approach during this free agency period.

The team is actively working to re-sign guard Quentin Grimes, who has become a restricted free agent after receiving an $8.7 million qualifying offer from Philadelphia. Discussions for a new deal are reportedly ongoing. Additionally, forward Guerschon Yabusele is also on their radar; however, as an unrestricted free agent, he may attract interest from other teams.

Negotiations with free agents can commence on Monday at 6 p.m., with official signings set to begin next Sunday, July 6, at 12:01 p.m.