76ers possess an ambitious trick up their sleeve that is flying under the radar

Philadelphia 76ers fans have grown weary of the team's emphasis on "prioritizing flexibility," yet this strategy will grant them access to the taxpayer mid-level exception (TP-MLE) worth $5.7 million. This financial tool becomes available contingent on Quentin Grimes rejecting his $8.7 million qualifying offer and signing a more lucrative deal, which would push the team above the $195.9 million first tax apron threshold.

The team currently has two open roster spots, with one expected to be filled by Grimes. The other spot remains available for a free agent or could be saved for future use. Despite fan desires for the 76ers to acquire another power forward due to concerns over front-court depth, indications suggest the team plans to hold onto the TP-MLE for now rather than spending it immediately.

As explained by analyst Jake Fischer, retaining the TP-MLE allows Philadelphia to absorb a player's salary in a trade during the season without needing to send matching salary back, providing significant strategic flexibility. This approach aligns with the team's pattern under President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey of entering seasons with unfinished rosters, which some fans misinterpret as a lack of commitment but is actually a calculated move to preserve assets.

Additionally, the 76ers could use the TP-MLE internally to convert two-way players—Hunter Sallis, Jabari Walker, or Dominick Barlow—to standard NBA contracts, particularly if any impress given the team's power forward needs. This strategy was previously employed with Ricky Council IV, who signed a four-year deal during the 2023-24 season.