76ers’ Newest Addition Joins Team Ahead of Miami Heat Matchup

The Philadelphia 76ers have a new member in former Memphis Grizzlies forward Kenneth Lofton Jr.

As the Grizzlies parted ways with the former NBA G League Rookie of the Year last week, he generated interest from several organizations before landing with the 76ers.

On Saturday, 76ers’ President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey announced that the team had waived two-way prospect Javonte Smart in order to make room for Lofton. Now, the young veteran will join the Sixers on their current road trip and is expected to be available to play against the Miami Heat on Christmas Day.

Could Lofton Make His Debut?

Lately, the Sixers’ front-court depth has taken a hit. The starting forward Nic Batum suffered a hamstring injury against the Chicago Bulls last Monday, which kept him off the court for the following two games. Monday’s matchup in Miami marks the third-straight game Batum will miss.

The starting center Joel Embiid will also miss Monday’s matchup against Miami as he deals with an ankle sprain. It’s unclear when Embiid could return to the floor, but the team is currently undecided on whether he’ll make the trip in time for the Orlando Magic matchup or not.

The Sixers also played without one of their reserve bigs, Mo Bamba, on Friday against the Toronto Raptors as he dealt with an illness.

Even with the recent setbacks taking place, Lofton is unlikely to see any playing time outside of potential garbage time minutes on Monday.

Not only will the Sixers get another reserve back in the fold, with Mo Bamba probable to play after missing last Friday’s game with an illness, but the Sixers also have Marcus Morris and Robert Covington at the four spot, with KJ Martin right behind them.

Lofton will be around the team getting acquainted, but acquiring time on the main roster would be a process as he hasn’t had the chance to join the team for a practice session just yet.