KJ Martin

Perhaps it was only fitting that for KJ Martin, the most productive offensive performance of his NBA career to date required first, a sprinkle of tireless play and defensive intensity. Proven to be an endless energy hub along the Philadelphia 76ers’ second unit, the fifth-year forward introduces himself through fierce rim protection, recording a well-timed swat that sets his path for a one-man fastbreak. Encircled by black-jerseyed Detroit Pistons at every turn, Martin, in typical fashion, trusts his odds in literally powering through all obstacles, barreling Jaden Ivey’s undersized frame into submission before banking in an old-fashioned and-one. The 76ers met Martin’s energy on a coast-to-coast with a hyphenated phrase of a different kind — a wire-to-wire win — as they slowly began to find their footing after the 2024-25 season’s slow start. Buoyed by the red-hot opening quarter, Martin captured a then-career-best 19 points (on seven-of-eight shooting), six rebounds, three assists, three blocks, and a +7 plus-minus.