Sixers' Justin Edwards opens up on staying ready amid uncertain role

The 22-year-old forward has had to adjust to a reduced role in his second NBA season.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 7:48pm

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Philadelphia 76ers forward Justin Edwards has had to adapt to a smaller role in his second NBA season after averaging 10.1 points per game as a rookie. Despite starting only 7 of 50 games this season compared to 26 of 44 last year, Edwards has stayed patient and ready to contribute when called upon, recently scoring 19 points in a win over the Brooklyn Nets.

Why it matters

Edwards' ability to stay focused and prepared despite an uncertain role is a testament to his professionalism and maturity. As a young player, his willingness to accept his current situation and continue working hard could pay dividends for the Sixers if injuries or other factors require him to take on a larger role again.

The details

After averaging 26.3 minutes per game as a rookie, Edwards' playing time has dropped to just 14.9 minutes per contest this season as the Sixers have remained relatively healthy. However, he has continued to make the most of his opportunities, recently scoring 19 points in a win over the Nets.

  • Edwards averaged 10.1 points per game as a rookie in the 2024-25 season.
  • In the 2025-26 season, Edwards has started only 7 of 50 games played, compared to 26 of 44 games as a rookie.

The players

Justin Edwards

A 22-year-old forward for the Philadelphia 76ers who is in his second NBA season.

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What they’re saying

“Just the way the season's been going for me. Just kind of stay ready. Wait for my name to be called. So, some days it might not get called. Some days it might get called. So, just staying patient and just staying ready, honestly. That's how I've been approaching this season.”

— Justin Edwards, Sixers Forward (Yahoo Sports)

“It is tough, but can't think like that, honestly. I'm in the NBA. Part of that percentage in the NBA, so I can't think of it like that, because at the end of the day, this is my dream job. It's something that I want to do for a long time. So, it always comes back around. So I just gotta stay ready. Stay patient.”

— Justin Edwards, Sixers Forward (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

Edwards will need to continue his patient and professional approach as he looks to earn more playing time and solidify his role with the Sixers. If he can capitalize on his opportunities when called upon, he could work his way back into a more prominent role on the team.

The takeaway

Justin Edwards' ability to stay ready and contribute despite an uncertain role is a testament to his maturity and professionalism as a young NBA player. His willingness to accept his current situation and continue working hard could pay dividends for the Sixers if he is needed to take on a larger role again due to injuries or other factors.