Granger takes physical as status remains unclear

PHILADELPHIA — Danny Granger took a physical. That was the extent of his involvement Saturday with the 76ers.

He didn’t meet with them. He didn’t join them for practice. He wasn’t even in the building. And that might be about as close as Granger ever gets to playing for them.

Acquired by the Sixers from Indiana at Thursday’s trade deadline, Granger is said to be seeking a buyout from the remainder of his contract. Such an arrangement would free the 30-year-old forward, who is earning $14 million in the final year of his deal, of ever having to play for the Sixers, who have lost 10 straight games and 20 of 23 overall.

A Sixers spokesman said it is possible Granger could be with the team at PCOM Sunday for practice, but nothing on that front has been etched in stone. After Saturday’s on-court session, Sixers coach Brett Brown said he had yet to meet with Granger.

If a buyout is what Granger wants, the Sixers will listen.

“I understand, and that’s why it’s a conversation,” Brown said. “We will run a business and also treat people well. There’s a fine line with all of it, but I think we’ll walk it just fine.”

Brown and Sixers

general manager Sam Hinkie have said on separate occasions that they wish to speak with Granger to determine his wishes — whether it is a buyout, or a 26-game test run with his new team. The latter is far less likely to occur, though it’s on the table at least until all parties have aired their opinions. And as for Brown… “I haven’t had the chance,” he said. “I’m waiting for (Granger) to do all of the physicals and medical clearances and I look forward to talking with him. It’s a conversation. It’s not direction, it’s not instruction. It’s two people sitting down and figuring out a path and a plan. I do look forward to learning what’s in his mind. I respect his situation and what he’s done and where he is. And he deserves to be heard.”