After a promising rookie year as an undrafted free agent, the 23-year-old Council underwhelmed in his second season in Philadelphia.
It wasn’t long ago that Ricky Council IV was the most talked-about name in the Sixers’ 2023 draft class, despite the team not having a pick. Signed as an undrafted free agent, Council quickly turned heads with his rare blend of athleticism, finishing ability, and knack for drawing fouls — traits not often seen in a rookie. It didn’t take long for Sixers fans to buy in.
Council entered this past season with expectations to build on what was widely viewed as a promising rookie campaign — but things didn’t go as planned. Despite nearly doubling his playing time, his production took a noticeable step back. His field goal percentage dropped from 48.2% to 38.2%, and his three-point shooting plummeted from 37.5% to 25.8%. Among players with at least 200 three-point attempts, Council ranked dead last in the league.
While the Sixers’ season was a rough one overall, it did offer valuable reps to end-of-bench players as the team’s tank quietly took shape. Council was among those who saw extended minutes, but he struggled to make the most of them. More often than not, head coach Nick Nurse leaned on rookie Justin Edwards or even two-way players instead — perhaps a sign of Nurse’s dwindling trust in Council’s role on the roster.
On the surface, it might seem like Nick Nurse was simply rotating through his options and giving everyone a fair shot. But one specific instance painted a different picture. In multiple blowout games, Nurse chose to play David Roddy — a newly signed two-way player who appeared in just three games before the team moved on — over Council. It was a subtle but telling move that raised questions about where Council stood in the rotation.
While others made the most of their extended minutes, Council never quite found the same rhythm we saw during his rookie year. After a largely uninspiring season, the Sixers are expected to explore all options as they look to reshape the roster — and Council’s future will be no exception.
As of now, Council is set to earn $2.2 million next season, with a team option worth $2.4 million for 2026–27. However, his contract is non-guaranteed, meaning the Sixers can waive him without taking a hit to their salary cap. It’s a low number in NBA money, but does it make any sense to bring him back?
Barring major changes, the Sixers’ wing rotation already has several key pieces in place. Paul George is expected to return, and rookie Justin Edwards should still be in the mix, whether via his team option or a restructured long-term deal. Kelly Oubre Jr. also has a player option this summer. If he’s back in any capacity, that’s three wings already positioned for significant rotation minutes — and that’s before factoring in any draft picks or offseason additions.
While Council’s salary is relatively low, a change of scenery might benefit both sides. At this point, it’s clear Nick Nurse’s trust in him is minimal. And even with expected roster shake-ups, the opportunity for Council to carve out a meaningful role in Philly might simply not be there.
Player Grade: D-
Ricky Council IV entered the season with momentum and real expectations after a standout rookie campaign — but failed to take the next step. The efficiency drop-off, lack of development as a shooter, and increasingly diminished role under Nick Nurse all paint a picture of a player who struggled to find his fit. While the athletic tools and flashes are still there, the Sixers needed more than just potential this year.
Given his limited production and the growing logjam at the wing, it’s hard to justify a roster spot unless significant improvement is made. Council’s story isn’t over — a fresh start elsewhere could unlock his game — but his sophomore campaign in Philly was undeniably a step backward.