Sixers Add Pair to Preseason Roster

Report From Philadelphia 76ers

On Tuesday, the Sixers added two players to their preseason roster, forward Drew Gordon and guard Malcolm Lee.

Gordon played collegiately at New Mexico and has spent the last two years playing overseas after going undrafted in 2012. The 6’9”, 245-pound big man represented the Sixers in the Las Vegas Summer League in July, averaging 6.7 points (47.2 FG%) and 6.0 rebounds in just over 20 minutes per game.

His comfort level with the team coupled with the opportunity to earn minutes early on with a Philadelphia young squad made signing with the team an easy decision.

“I couldn’t ask for more,” he said of joining the Sixers’ preseason roster. “I know most of the players [on the team] from summer league and a lot from just growing up and playing against each other. Being able to jump back into the system and kind of know the plays, know what the coaches expect, is a big thing. It’s not something where I’m starting new with a new program.”

The other new addition, Malcolm Lee, was selected 43rd overall by the Chicago Bulls in 2011 before having his rights swiftly dealt to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He spent two years in Minnesota, appearing in 35 games (12 starts) and averaging 4.0 points (38.5 FG%) and 1.9 rebounds in 15.2 minutes per game.

After suffering a rash of injuries late in the 2012-13 season, he was traded to the Phoenix Suns during the ensuing offseason. Lee spent the summer rehabbing in Phoenix before being traded again, this time to the Washington Wizards as part of a five-player deal. He was waived three days later.

In Philadelphia, the 24-year-old UCLA alum is hoping to take advantage of a roster on which he can step in and immediately bring a veteran presence. He’s also looking to jump start his NBA career after a year away from the league.

“I see a big opportunity to help this young team, and help my career too, because I’m kind of rebuilding my career,” he said. “For my first two years [in the NBA], I was known for my defense, but I feel like I can also score, knock down some shots, and be a playmaker.”