The Philadelphia 76ers have made some exceptional moves this offseason. After the blockbuster trade to acquire Jaylen Brown from the Boston Celtics, the 76ers followed it up by signing LeBron James in free agency. Now, they build upon James’ addition by signing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
Several rumors suggested that Kentavious Caldwell-Pope would follow LeBron James following buyout discussions with the Memphis Grizzlies. After his discussions with the Grizzlies were finalized, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the veteran sharpshooter signed a new, short-term deal with Philadelphia.
“Just in: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has agreed to a buyout with the Memphis Grizzlies and plans to sign a one-year, $3.9 million deal with the Philadelphia 76ers after clearing waivers, sources tell ESPN. The two-time NBA champion with the Lakers and Nuggets, who was part of the 2020 title along with LeBron James, gives the 76ers a wing shooter and defender,” Charania shared.
Needless to say, the chance to reunite with his 2020 Lakers championship teammate was too good an opportunity to pass up. Hence, once he agreed to join the 76ers, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope could not contain his enthusiasm, as he was seen celebrating the move at the golf course.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was all smiles on the golf course after agreeing to a deal with the Sixers.pic.twitter.com/pSvGFgqcQI
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) July 26, 2026
Caldwell-Pope’s excitement is justified. Given the kind of teams he’s played on in the last two years, having the chance to play for an actual contender again is bound to spark new life.
Fans on social media also took note of the veteran’s little celebration. As several fans chimed in to comment on Caldwell-Pope’s dance at the golf course, we look at some of the reactions on X.
“This is the most fun he will have all season once he starts playing with LeBum!” criticized one user.
“I’d be smiling too. New contract, new opportunity, and still getting paid to play the game you love,” shared another.
“This video is going to go triple platinum after every single playoff win,” predicted one fan.
“I’ve always called this guy Kentavious Caldwell-Nope because of how much he’s burned me on props and bets,” doubted another.
One X user envisioned more promise for the Caldwell-Pope-James duo, as they commented:
“Let’s get ring three, brother.”
Unfortunately, another refuted this sentiment by adding:
“All this ring chasing to not win. KCP is washed. We expect that he can go from barely playing on a bad team to contributing to winning again? I don’t see it; maybe a few years ago.”
“Couple milly to babysit Bronny when he gets there at the trade deadline. Not bad. What a flex!” stated one user.
“Hyping a guy who averaged 5 points in 30 minutes of playoff basketball,” noted another.
“It’s perfect for him, playing D and getting wide open threes,” praised a user.
“Give me a 37%+ from three with that defense, and we’re cooking, demon,” hoped another.
While many seem optimistic about the move, others appear less excited about it. For the most part, the doubts are also justifiable.
Although Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has established himself as an elite 3-and-D veteran with championship pedigree, he hasn’t been as impactful over the last few seasons.
With averages of 8.6 points, 2.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game on 42.7% shooting from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc over the last two seasons, it is safe to say that Caldwell-Pope is somewhat removed from being at his best.
While the veteran sharpshooter thrived during his time with the Lakers and the Nuggets, now, at 33, there is reason to be concerned about his production. Still, there is some reason to believe that partnering up with LeBron James on the 76ers, even in the capacity of a bench player, could be good for him.
For the most part, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope’s addition seems to be a solid way for the 76ers to compensate for Kelly Oubre Jr.‘s departure this summer. Whether the 33-year-old can have the same impact offensively is unknown, but purely as a defender, Caldwell-Pope adds a lot of depth to Philadelphia’s roster.
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