Sixers Convert Jabari Walker To Standard Contract, Sign Cam Payne

The 76ers are upgrading two-way forward Jabari Walker to a standard NBA contract and plan to sign veteran point guard Cam Payne for the rest of the season, according to Shams Charania. Walker, 23, has averaged 3.7 points and 3.1 rebounds in 45 outings and earned extra minutes amid injuries and Paul George’s 25-game suspension. Dominick Barlow already made the jump to a standard deal, and Payne arrives with recent European experience and a 72-game run with the Knicks last year. Merlin senses Philadelphia is shoring up depth more than reinventing the roster. Walker is a low-risk rotation option and Barlow remains the energetic frontcourt spark. Payne brings veteran calm and locker room lift — “He’s so positive,” Tyrese Maxey said — and should be insurance after Jared McCain’s trade, not a major minutes shakeup.