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76ers lose lottery-pick guard to New York Knicks

The Philadelphia 76ers bulked up their backcourt in recent weeks, leaving little room for former lottery pick Cameron Payne.

Instead, Payne is reportedly signing a one-year contract with one of the Sixers’ biggest competitors, the New York Knicks. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported on the news, writing, “Free agent guard Cam Payne has agreed to a one-year, $3.1 million deal with the New York Knicks, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.”

The 76ers’ guard room saw the additions of rookie Jared McCain and veteran Eric Gordon this offseason. Although Payne was a solid contributor off the bench for Philadelphia, averaging 9.3 points and 3.1 assists on 41.3% shooting. He even started in a handful of games due to the absence of Maxey’s former duo, De’Anthony Melton.

The 29-year-old guard is one of the most sought-after journeymen in the league, largely due to his ability to mesh in almost every system. Once the 76ers re-signed veteran guard Kyle Lowry, it was essentially a guarantee that Payne would depart. It’s clear he’s hoping to win the first championship of his career next season by joining one of Philadelphia’s strongest opponents in the East.

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