The importance of Dean Wade for Sixers as they steamroll toward season

The big additions for the Philadelphia 76ers are obvious. Everybody has their eyes set on the additions of Jaylen Brown and LeBron James, and for good reason! Those two are set to really change things around this franchise as everybody moves forward and Philadelphia looks to contend for a championship.

However, depth is so key in today's NBA, and President of Basketball Operations Mike Gansey made sure he found some in the 2026 offseason.

One under the radar addition is Dean Wade, who coach Nick Nurse is a big fan of , as he is somebody who provides a ton of versatility and can do so without the basketball.

On paper, Wade's numbers don't stand out. He averaged 5.8 points and 4.2 rebounds for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2025-26 season. However, the biggest stat is his usage percentage of 9.9%. On a team that will feature high usage players like Brown, James, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid, it's so important to have a guy who doesn't need the ball and find a way to be effective. That's the role Wade will fill.

Per Cleaning the Glass, Wade shot 41% on corner 3-pointers in 2025-26. That 3-point percentage is hugely important when considering the double teams Embiid receives on a regular basis as well as how many times James and Maxey attack the paint and kick it to the corners. He understands how to play the game and find opportunities when they present themselves. Finding role players who don't need the ball will be essential for this group.

So! The #Sixers have agreed to a deal with Dean Wade. It's time for a video thread! He is a terrific corner 3-point shooter. Per CTG, he shot 41% on corner 3s. He can spot up in the corner and knock down open looks within Philly's offense, like in this 1st video. pic.twitter.com/su44xs9XtM

— Ky Carlin (@Ky_Carlin) July 1, 2026 The versatility Wade offers on the defensive end is important as well. He has defended the likes of Paolo Banchero, Cade Cunningham, Jalen Brunson, and anybody else who the Cavs decided to throw him on. He isn't a lockdown defender and won't be in the running for any All-Defensive teams, but the Sixers will have the opportunity to throw Wade onto different players and take advantage of his versatility on that end of the floor.

It was no secret that the Sixers needed help off their bench and Wade provides it. After initially being expected to start for this group, he will move into a bench role after the addition of James. Philadelphia will now move forward with this current group and Wade's ability to do a little bit of everything will be a big help for the Sixers down the line.

This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: The importance of Dean Wade for Sixers as they steamroll toward season