The Philadelphia 76ers will likely part ways with Paul Reed after an offseason spending spree.
According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Sixers plan to waive Reid because his contract is not guaranteed through the 2024-25 season.
Prior to the Reid report, Wojnarowski had reported Philadelphia was signing Caleb Martin. The 76ers agreed to terms with guard Paul George on a four-year, $212 million contract on Monday.
In addition to George's deal, Tyrese Maxey agreed to a max contract extension worth an estimated $203.9 million over five years.
George, Maxey and Joel Embiid's contracts will be worth a combined $135.8 million next season.
President of basketball operations Daryl Morey has been able to surround his three stars with quality players on low-cost contracts, with none of the other deals agreed to so far being worth more than $8 million through the 2024-25 season.
Before signing Martin, the 76ers were making $10.3 million on the first apron and $21.1 million on the second apron. Releasing Reid's contract would save the team $7.7 million next season.
Reed signed a three-year, $23 million offer sheet with the Utah Jazz as a restricted free agent in July 2023. The Sixers paid the same amount to keep him under contract through 2025-26.
Reed, 25, was the 58th pick by Philadelphia in the 2020 draft. He has slowly developed into a capable backup big man behind Embiid over the past four seasons.
Reed set career highs last season in games played (82), starts (24), points (7.3), rebounds (6.0) and blocks (1.0).
Waiver claims are not common in the NBA — there were only three last season and none after Dec. 17 — so it wouldn't be surprising if a team claims him during the 48-hour waiver period rather than letting him become a free agent.
Given his age and track record in a limited role, Reid shouldn't have any trouble finding a new team if he becomes a free agent.
