Sixers Sign Veteran Guard Cameron Payne for Playoff Push

The former Celtics rival joins Philadelphia to bolster their backcourt ahead of the postseason.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Philadelphia 76ers have signed veteran guard Cameron Payne, who previously played for the Celtics' Eastern Conference rivals the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers. Payne will provide depth in the Sixers' backcourt after they traded away Jared McCain at the trade deadline.

Why it matters

The 76ers are currently the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference, meaning they could face the Celtics in the first round of the playoffs. Payne's addition gives the Sixers more experience and scoring punch off the bench as they try to make a deep postseason run.

The details

The 31-year-old Payne has played for seven NBA teams since being drafted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2015. He most recently played overseas in Serbia this season after being cut by the Indiana Pacers during training camp. Payne will now backup star guard Tyrese Maxey in Philadelphia.

  • Payne was traded to the 76ers at the 2024 trade deadline.
  • Payne played for the Knicks last season but was not retained.
  • The Celtics will host Payne and the 76ers on March 1st in a nationally televised game.

The players

Cameron Payne

A 31-year-old veteran guard who has played for seven NBA teams, most recently the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers.

Tyrese Maxey

The 76ers' starting point guard, who Payne will backup.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Payne will attempt to fill that hole after playing overseas this year after being cut by the Pacers during training camp.”

— Brian Robb, Author (masslive.com)

What’s next

The Celtics will host Payne and the 76ers for their final regular season matchup on March 1st in a nationally televised game on NBC.

The takeaway

The addition of veteran guard Cameron Payne gives the 76ers more depth and experience in their backcourt as they try to secure a favorable playoff position and potentially face the Celtics in the first round.