Armed with an array of cap space this summer, the Philadelphia 76ers quickly got to work at the start of free agency to bolster the roster around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Daryl Morey's first move was bringing back a familiar face to lock down a key role.

It is going to be an uphill battle for Martin to convince the Sixers by February's trade deadline that he is worth keeping, but that is not an indictment of the Sixers' perception of his abilities. Martin's contract — a two-year deal with a non-guaranteed second season — was specifically designed to make him an appetizing trade piece down the line.

IN THE OPENING hours of free agency, Andre Drummond looked at his phone and saw a surprising name pop up. It was Joel Embiid. He was hoping for a reunion. “Getting a phone call from the best