Justin Edwards has turned heads as Kentucky’s standout NBA rookie during the 2024-25 season, leading to the Philadelphia 76ers signing him to a three-year contract. This deal, announced in June 2025, follows Edwards’ emergence as a valuable rotation player, offering the team a hopeful asset for the future.
The 76ers had initially held a $1.9 million team option for Edwards but declined it, choosing instead to guarantee two years of his new contract. For the 2025-26 season, Edwards is set to earn $2 million, a reflection of his growing importance in Philadelphia’s roster.
Contract Negotiations and Performance Details
Represented by Klutch Sports’ Rich Paul and Josh Hairston, Edwards’ upgraded contract demonstrates confidence in his potential. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Edwards’ deal features two fully guaranteed years. His rookie year statistics substantiate the organization’s decision, as he shot an impressive 45.5 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from beyond the arc.
“Edwards will receive two guaranteed years on the new deal, sources said. He earns $2 million next season after the 76ers declined his $1.9M option. Edwards emerged as an upside rotation player last season, shooting 45.5% from the field and 36.3 from 3.” —Shams Charania, ESPN Reporter
Edwards’ rise was unexpected, especially after going undrafted in 2024. He initially signed a two-way contract with Philadelphia, which was converted into a standard contract by February as his impact on the court became undeniable.
Rising from the Bench to Key Player Amid Team Injuries
Edwards began the season primarily as a bench player, but injury challenges within the 76ers opened up significant playing time. The 6-foot-7 wing seized this opportunity, averaging 10.1 points and 3.4 rebounds in 26.3 minutes per game across 44 appearances, starting in 26 of those contests.
Throughout the season, Edwards consistently contributed, highlighted by scoring 25 points twice against the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs. Despite the team’s struggles, posting an 11-33 record during his appearances, Edwards stood out as one of the few bright spots among the Philadelphia roster.
Context of Team Challenges and Future Outlook
The Sixers faced significant absences from star players such as Joel Embiid, who played just 19 games, Paul George with 41 games, and Tyrese Maxey, another Kentucky alum, who appeared in 52 games. Additionally, prized rookie guard Jared McCain, who initially appeared to be the class’s top rookie, suffered injuries limiting him to 23 games.
Despite the hurdles, Philadelphia secured the third overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, selecting Baylor’s VJ Edgecombe. The decision to lock in Edwards, just 21 years old, alongside promising talents like Maxey and McCain, signals the franchise’s intent to build around a youthful core while recognizing Embiid’s advancing age. The 31-year-old former MVP has been limited to 58 total games in the last two seasons due to injuries.
Significance of Edwards’ Contract for the 76ers’ Strategy
By committing to Justin Edwards with a three-year contract, the Philadelphia 76ers are investing in a player who has already demonstrated resilience, skill, and the ability to step up during difficult stretches. This contract reflects a strategy focused on developing emerging talent amid the transitions of veteran stars.
Edwards’ contract prolongs his tenure with the franchise, providing Philadelphia with a flexible building block during a period of roster evolution. As the team aims to balance immediate competitiveness and long-term potential, Edwards’ continued growth could help shape the Sixers’ trajectory in the coming years.