Teams linked to Collins in recent chatter include the Timberwolves, Magic, Spurs, and the 76ers. The public chatter around free agency projections has repeatedly connected the Sixers and the Spurs, the defending Western Conference champions, to some of the league’s most sought-after forwards. While nothing is guaranteed, the headlines reflect a trend: teams with high salaries and cap space are weighing how Collins—an athletic forward with a track record of scoring and rebounding—could help bolster their frontcourt and provide additional versatility.
John Collins’ NBA journey began after a standout college run at Wake Forest. He was selected 19th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks and spent six seasons there. During his time in Atlanta, Collins developed into a familiar opponent for the 76ers, contributing consistently on both ends of the floor. A notable chapter of his early career involved a publicized exchange with Joel Embiid, which stemmed from comments Embiid had made about the Hawks. The on-court competitiveness between the two veterans helped shape several memorable moments in the playoffs and regular season matchups.
In 2023, Collins was traded from the Hawks to the Utah Jazz, where he continued to produce solid numbers, posting averages around the mid-teens in points and solid rebounding. After two seasons with Utah, he was moved to the Los Angeles Clippers in July 2025. During the 2025-2026 season, Collins delivered a contribution profile that included about 13.6 points and 5.3 rebounds per game while shooting a respectable 40.6% from three-point range across 69 appearances. His shooting range adds a valuable dimension for teams seeking spacing and frontcourt durability.
For the 76ers, a team known for its star power at the top of the roster, the financial realities are a major factor. The club has invested heavily in top-of-the-rotation players, notably Joel Embiid, and has also built around key contributors like Tyrese Maxey. This structure often leaves limited cap room for significant, long-term upgrades. As a result, any free-agent addition must offer clear value, both in immediate impact and in alignment with the team’s longer-term salary framework. Collins’ combination of scoring ability, length, and versatility could fit as a complementary piece who can contribute meaningful minutes alongside Embiid and Maxey, while also providing a stretch option to widen the floor.
Beyond Collins, the 76ers are evaluating several other names as they map out the roster’s next steps. Internal discussions reportedly involve the futures of potential free agents such as Kelly Oubre Jr. and Quentin Grimes, as the front office weighs the best directions for roster balance, cap management, and long-term competitiveness. The goal is to assemble a well-rounded supporting cast that maximizes the strong core already in place, while preserving flexibility for future moves.
Strategically, any move for a forward of Collins’ ilk would need to align with Philadelphia’s cap trajectory and roster-building philosophy. Teams with capacity to absorb a sizable salary and the willingness to commit significant years could be in the mix, given Collins’ age, experience, and production profile. For the 76ers, the challenge is to balance immediate on-court impact with financial sustainability, ensuring that any acquisition strengthens the team without compromising future leverage.
In sum, the ongoing free-agent landscape features Philadelphia among the teams connected to John Collins, with other interested clubs including the Timberwolves, Magic, and Spurs. While the outcome remains uncertain, Collins’ profile — a proven scorer who can stretch the floor and contribute on the glass — positions him as a plausible target for teams seeking to elevate their forward rotation without sacrificing depth elsewhere. As free agency progresses, teams will continue to weigh fit, cost, and long-term implications to determine whether Collins becomes a centerpiece, a complimentary piece, or another evaluated option in their plans for the upcoming season.
