The Philadelphia 76ers are facing a decision regarding Lonnie Walker IV’s future with the team, as they hold a $2.9 million team option on his contract for the 2025-26 NBA season.
The choice to retain or move on from Walker will likely hinge on how the Sixers approach the upcoming NBA Draft.
Philadelphia owns the third overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, and much of the speculation around that selection centers on two highly touted prospects: forward Ace Bailey and guard V.J. Edgecombe.
The direction the team takes with that pick could significantly impact their backcourt depth and influence their decision on Walker.
In addition to the draft implications, the Sixers have other key roster considerations.
Quentin Grimes, who showed notable improvement and carved out a bigger role with the team following the trade deadline, will enter restricted free agency this offseason.
Meanwhile, veteran guard Eric Gordon holds a $3.5 million player option for next season, which he is widely expected to exercise, adding another layer to the team’s guard rotation.
If the Sixers ultimately select Edgecombe with their top-three pick, it could reduce the need for Walker, given the potential crowding at the shooting guard position.
In that scenario, Philadelphia may opt to decline Walker’s team option to maintain roster flexibility.
Walker joined the Sixers midway through last season, making 20 appearances and contributing solid numbers in limited action.
He averaged 12.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists over 23.9 minutes per game.
Before signing with Philadelphia in February, Walker had been playing overseas for Zalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania, from which he opted out to return to the NBA.
Lonnie Walker's Option May Be Tied To Sixers Draft Night https://t.co/xym55KbzGI
— RealGM (@RealGM) May 27, 2025
