Joel Embiid just signed a three-year, $193 million extension this offseason, locking him up until 2029. But things aren’t looking good for the 76ers right now—they’re sitting at 3-13, near the bottom of the East, and Embiid has barely played thanks to a knee injury.
- Atlanta Hawks
- Boston Celtics
- Brooklyn Nets
- Charlotte Hornets
- Chicago Bulls
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Dallas Mavericks
- Denver Nuggets
- Detroit Pistons
- Golden State Warriors
- Houston Rockets
- Indiana Pacers
- Los Angeles Clippers
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Memphis Grizzlies
- Miami Heat
- Milwaukee Bucks
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- New Orleans Pelicans
- New York Knicks
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Orlando Magic
- Phoenix Suns
- Portland Trail Blazers
- Sacramento Kings
- San Antonio Spurs
- Toronto Raptors
- Utah Jazz
- Washington Wizards
In four games, he’s putting up just 19.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists—not exactly MVP numbers. Since the extension means he can’t be traded until the offseason, it’s the perfect time to start asking: what kind of trade package could actually get the 76ers to move their superstar?
Atlanta Hawks
Potential Trade Offer: De’Andre Hunter, Onyeka Okongwu, Bogdan Bogdanovic, 2025 First-Round Pick (LAL), 2027 First-Round Pick (NOP), 2029 First-Round Pick
This package gives the 76ers a mix of young talent and future draft assets. Onyeka Okongwu, averaging 10.7 points and 6.5 rebounds this season, could fit nicely alongside Tyrese Maxey and rookie Jared McCain, who has been scorching hot so far with 16.5 points per game. Hunter and Bogdanovic would add depth on the wings, while the three first-round picks offer flexibility for a rebuild.
The 76ers might find it hard to move Embiid for a package that doesn’t include a star player, even with their struggles this season. On the other hand, the Hawks would instantly form a dangerous duo with Embiid and Trae Young, making them real contenders in the East.
Boston Celtics
Potential Trade Offer: Kristaps Porzingis, Derrick White, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
This package is probably the only way the Celtics could keep Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown while still pulling off a trade for Embiid. Kristaps Porzingis, when healthy, is one of the most versatile bigs in the league, but his injury history is a massive red flag, and he hasn’t even suited up this season. Derrick White is a solid two-way guard, and the two first-round picks add some value for the 76ers.
For the Celtics, adding Embiid to a core with Tatum and Brown would be absolutely insane, turning them into instant title favorites. The 76ers, though, would reject to bet on Porzingis’ health and give up their franchise centerpiece without a more reliable return.
Brooklyn Nets
Potential Trade Offer: Nic Claxton, Cameron Johnson, 2025 First-Round Pick (via NYK), 2025 First-Round Pick (via MIL), 2026 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick (via NYK)
The Nets have surprised everyone by staying competitive at 7-10 instead of tanking, and a trade for Embiid could push them into serious contender territory. Nic Claxton, one of the league’s best defensive bigs, and Cameron Johnson, a sharpshooting forward, give the 76ers strong building blocks. Adding four first-round picks, including the Bucks’ 2025 pick, which could gain value with Milwaukee struggling and Giannis’ future in doubt, sweetens the deal further.
The 76ers would likely hesitate to move Embiid for anything less than an established star, but this package offers a great return if they decide to rebuild. For Brooklyn, they’d pair Embiid with their current core, and with Ben Simmons’ $40 million expiring this offseason, they could chase another star or two in free agency to create a legitimate title contender.
Charlotte Hornets
Potential Trade Offer: Miles Bridges, Grant Williams, Josh Green, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick (via MIA), 2028 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
The Hornets have started the season strong at 6-10, staying competitive behind LaMelo Ball, who recently dropped a monster 50-point game on the Bucks. Adding Embiid to this squad could transform them into a playoff contender overnight. Despite past off-court issues, Miles Bridges is a versatile scorer and defender. Grant Williams brings toughness and floor spacing, and Josh Green is a promising two-way wing. Throw in four first-round picks, and it’s a strong offer for the 76ers.
While this trade gives the 76ers multiple solid pieces and plenty of future draft capital, it’s hard to see them parting with Embiid for anything less than a surefire star. For the Hornets, this would be a bold move to pair Embiid with LaMelo Ball, giving them one of the most exciting inside-outside duos in the league.
Chicago Bulls
Potential Trade Offer: Lonzo Ball, Nikola Vucevic, Coby White, 2025 First-Round Pick (via POR), 2027 First-Round Pick
The Bulls are in desperate need of a shakeup, and trading for Joel Embiid could be the move that puts them back in the playoff mix. Lonzo Ball, though recovering from injury, brings elite playmaking and defensive versatility. Nikola Vucevic offers scoring and rebounding from the center position, and Coby White adds backcourt depth and scoring punch. Throw in two first-round picks, and it’s a respectable offer for the 76ers.
For the 76ers, this deal might fall short of expectations. While it provides depth and flexibility, none of the pieces offer the star power needed to replace Embiid. The Bulls, on the other hand, would form a formidable duo with Embiid and Zach LaVine, potentially revitalizing their expectations after a 7-11 start, and giving them a chance to compete in the East.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Potential Trade Offer: Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert, Isaac Okoro, Dean Wade, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Cavaliers have been on a tear this season, starting with a 15-0 record, though they recently took their first loss to the Celtics. Adding Embiid to their roster could push them all the way to the Finals. This trade package offers the 76ers a mix of talent and future assets. Jarrett Allen, averaging 14.5 points and 10.9 rebounds, provides a strong defensive presence. Caris LeVert, contributing 12.1 points per game, adds scoring and playmaking. Isaac Okoro and Dean Wade offer depth on the wings, and the two first-round picks provide future flexibility.
For the 76ers, this deal brings in solid pieces to build around. Still, parting with Embiid is a significant move, and they might seek a more established star in return. The Cavaliers, on the other hand, would form a formidable trio with Embiid, Donovan Mitchell, and Darius Garland, although losing a big part of the reason they’ve been so good recently.
Dallas Mavericks
Potential Trade Offer: P.J. Washington, Daniel Gafford, Maxi Kleber, Quentin Grimes, Dwight Powell, 2031 First-Round Pick
For the Mavericks, this trade would be an absolute dream. Pairing Joel Embiid with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving would create one of the scariest trios in the league. The problem? This offer is packed with role players and lacks the star power or draft assets the 76ers would need to consider moving their MVP center.
P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford are solid rotational players, and Maxi Kleber brings some defensive versatility, but none of them move the needle. Quentin Grimes is an intriguing young talent, and Dwight Powell is a serviceable veteran big, but throwing in just a single first-round pick (2031) makes this package feel underwhelming.
The Mavericks are sitting at 9-7 this season, staying competitive behind Luka’s usual brilliance, averaging 28.1 points, 7.6 assists, and 7.6 rebounds per game. Adding Embiid would undoubtedly make them title contenders, but the 76ers aren’t likely to entertain this deal unless Dallas can come up with significantly better assets.
Denver Nuggets
Potential Trade Offer: Michael Porter Jr., Aaron Gordon, 2030 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
This package isn’t terrible, but it’s far from what you’d call a blockbuster. Michael Porter Jr. is an elite scorer when he’s healthy—when being the key word since his injury history is a massive red flag. Aaron Gordon is a rock-solid forward who can defend, cut, and do the dirty work, but he’s not someone you’d build a franchise around. Adding two late first-rounders doesn’t exactly scream “we’re trading an MVP.”
Pairing Embiid with Nikola Jokic would break basketball. The best passing big man in history combined with Embiid’s interior dominance? Unreal. But this would be franchise treason for the 76ers, sending their guy to the team of the reigning MVP and biggest rival. And let’s face it, MPJ isn’t the type of piece you center a rebuild around—this trade feels like a non-starter for Philly.
Detroit Pistons
Potential Trade Offer: Tobias Harris, Ronald Holland II, Jalen Duren, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
This deal gives the 76ers a mix of young talent and draft assets, which is great for a rebuild. Ronald Holland II is a promising rookie with plenty of upside, and Jalen Duren, who’s been solid this season with averages of 8.7 points and 10.0 rebounds, is already looking like one of the better young bigs in the league. Tobias Harris, while familiar to Philly, is mostly here for salary matching and likely doesn’t fit their long-term plans. The three first-round picks sweeten the pot for a rebuild.
The problem? The 76ers aren’t exactly in rebuild mode with Paul George locked in for the next four seasons. Trading Embiid for future assets doesn’t align with their timeline, and bringing back Tobias Harris feels redundant. For the Pistons, pairing Embiid with Cade Cunningham and their young core could make them a surprise playoff team, but this deal probably doesn’t move the needle enough for Philly to consider it.
Golden State Warriors
Potential Trade Offer: Andrew Wiggins, Kevon Looney, Jonathan Kuminga, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Warriors are sitting at 12-4 this season, looking strong behind Stephen Curry’s play, averaging 22.0 points per game. They’ve managed to be the best team in the West for now, but adding Joel Embiid to their roster could take them from contenders to outright favorites. This trade package, however, feels like a tough sell.
Andrew Wiggins, while valuable as a two-way wing, hasn’t shown the ability to be a centerpiece for a team. Kevon Looney is an elite rebounder but doesn’t move the needle offensively, and Jonathan Kuminga remains a project rather than a proven commodity. Throw in three first-round picks, which are likely to be late in the draft, and it’s not a package that would tempt the 76ers to part with their franchise player.
For the Warriors, this trade would create a monstrous core of Curry, Embiid, and Draymond Green, but for the 76ers, there just isn’t enough here to justify letting Embiid go.
Houston Rockets
Potential Trade Offer: Dillon Brooks, Steven Adams, Jabari Smith Jr., Tari Eason, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick (via PHX), 2029 First-Round Pick
The Rockets have been one of the biggest surprises this season, sitting at 12-6 and currently holding the third seed in the West. They’ve also been linked to major offseason moves for stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Kevin Durant. Adding Joel Embiid would make them an instant contender, but this trade brings up some tricky questions.
For the 76ers, this package is one of the better ones they could get if they decide to blow it all up. Jabari Smith Jr. is a rising star with great defensive potential and a smooth shooting stroke. Tari Eason is another young forward with loads of upside, and three first-round picks give Philly flexibility for the future. Steven Adams provides veteran leadership, and Dillon Brooks is… well, Brooks.
The Rockets, however, would need to figure out how to balance their frontcourt with both Embiid and Alperen Sengun, and they’d be giving up a lot of their young core to make this happen. While this offer might tempt the 76ers, it’s hard to see them trading Embiid for anything short of a proven superstar. Still, this is one of the spiciest packages they could entertain.
Indiana Pacers
Potential Trade Offer: Myles Turner, Obi Toppin, Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
For the 76ers, this package could keep them competitive while also setting up their future. Myles Turner is one of the best defensive bigs in the league, Obi Toppin brings athleticism and energy, and Bennedict Mathurin is a talented young scorer with upside. Isaiah Jackson adds depth to the frontcourt, and the three first-round picks provide valuable assets for future moves or rebuilding.
The Pacers, currently sitting as the 8th seed after last year’s impressive run to the Eastern Conference Finals, could use this trade to retool their core around Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and Joel Embiid. Embiid would give Indiana a dominant interior presence to help them push back into playoff contention.
While the 76ers might hesitate to move Embiid without getting a superstar in return, this deal gives them a mix of win-now pieces and future assets. For the Pacers, pairing Embiid with Haliburton could give them a legitimate shot to compete in the East again.
Los Angeles Clippers
Potential Trade Offer: Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, Terance Mann, Bones Hyland, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Clippers have had a better start to the 2024-25 season than expected, sitting at 11-7 and making noise in the West. Kawhi Leonard’s absence has left a massive void, and the team desperately needs a new direction without Paul George anymore. A move for Joel Embiid would certainly shake things up, but does this package really move the needle for the 76ers?
The deal would send Norman Powell, a reliable scorer averaging 23.3 points, along with Ivica Zubac as a steady paint presence. Terance Mann brings defensive versatility, and Bones Hyland provides offensive spark. Since they traded their future for George back in 2019, they really don’t have much draft pieces to include in the deal.
While the 76ers would get a decent mix of players, there’s no centerpiece here to replace Embiid’s value. For the Clippers, adding Embiid to a roster that still includes enough firepower to contend could flip their season around, but it’s hard to imagine Philly saying yes without more significant pieces on the table.
Los Angeles Lakers
Potential Trade Offer: D’Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Lakers are off to a hot start this season, sitting at 10-6 and firmly in the top four of the Western Conference. With consistent rumors about their interest in upgrading at center, a move for Joel Embiid in the offseason would shake up the league. Pairing Embiid with LeBron James and Anthony Davis could create a juggernaut.
This package, however, leans more toward a rebuild-friendly haul. Austin Reaves is an exciting young guard with playmaking skills. Dalton Knecht, a rookie, has shown flashes of shooting and scoring potential with a 37-point game. Rui Hachimura and D’Angelo Russell round out the deal as solid contributors, while the 2029 and 2031 first-round picks add some long-term value.
For the 76ers, unless Anthony Davis is involved, it’s tough to see them accepting this trade. While Reaves and Knecht offer intriguing upside, Embiid’s value is far greater, and this package lacks the centerpiece or high-end picks needed to make it worthwhile. For the Lakers, though, landing Embiid would make them terrifying in the West, giving LeBron another superstar to push for a title in the final years of his career.
Memphis Grizzlies
Potential Trade Offer: Jaren Jackson Jr., Marcus Smart, GG Jackson, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
The Grizzlies entered the season hoping for a strong bounce-back with Ja Morant returning from his shoulder injury, but their 10-7 record and seventh-place spot in the West suggest they’re still struggling to find their groove. A move for Joel Embiid in the offseason could completely change their trajectory, especially with Morant leading the charge.
This package gives the 76ers a lot to think about. Jaren Jackson Jr., the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, brings elite rim protection and floor-spacing as a stretch big. Marcus Smart, another former DPOY, adds defensive toughness and veteran leadership. GG Jackson, after an impressive rookie season, continues to show flashes of becoming a dynamic forward for the future. Add in four first-round picks (2025, 2027, 2029, 2031), and it’s a strong offer if the 76ers decide to rebuild.
For Memphis, adding Embiid to a core of Morant and Desmond Bane would make them a legitimate title contender in the West. For Philly, while this deal brings in defensive anchors and exciting young talent, trading Embiid would still be a monumental decision. Unless the 76ers fully embrace a rebuild, it’s tough to see them moving on from their MVP for even this strong a haul.
Miami Heat
Potential Trade Offer: Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
For the 76ers, this might be the best deal on the table if they decide to move Joel Embiid. Bam Adebayo, a defensive star and two-time All-Star, would give them an elite anchor in the paint. Tyler Herro, having a career year averaging 23.8 points per game, adds offensive firepower and youth to the mix. The two future first-round picks (2029, 2031) round out the package, providing long-term value.
The Heat, currently sitting at 7-7 and fifth in the East, could make a massive splash by pairing Embiid with Jimmy Butler. Butler, who has a great friendship with Embiid, would likely re-sign in Miami to chase a championship alongside his former teammate in the offseason. Adding Embiid to the Heat’s gritty culture would instantly make them one of the favorites in the Eastern Conference.
While the 76ers would lose their franchise player, this deal offers a strong return to keep them competitive. Bam and Herro are both proven contributors, and the picks add flexibility for future moves. For Miami, this trade could be a game-changer, but it depends on whether they’re willing to part with two key pillars of their current roster.
Milwaukee Bucks
Potential Trade Offer: Giannis Antetokounmpo
If the 76ers were presented with this trade, they’d jump at the opportunity without hesitation. Giannis Antetokounmpo is not just younger and healthier but arguably the best all-around player in the league. This season, he’s putting up jaw-dropping numbers with 32.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.4 assists while continuing to be one of the most dominant two-way players in basketball. His durability and leadership make him the kind of cornerstone every franchise dreams of building around.
For the Bucks, though, this trade makes no sense. Giannis is Milwaukee. He’s their lifeblood, the reason they’re in contention every year, and the face of the franchise. While Joel Embiid is another former MVP and an incredible talent, his injury history and availability concerns make him a far riskier piece to build a team around.
While Embiid is undoubtedly elite, swapping him for Giannis—who’s younger, more versatile, and consistently available—would never cross the Bucks’ minds. This trade might be an upgrade for Philadelphia, but it’s a non-starter for Milwaukee.
Minnesota Timberwolves
Potential Trade Offer: Rudy Gobert, Donte DiVincenzo, Nickeil Alexander-Walker
This trade would be a dream for the Timberwolves. Moving on from Rudy Gobert—one of the biggest disappointments of the season—while adding Joel Embiid would transform their fortunes. After trading Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks for Julius Randle, the Timberwolves hoped to bounce back, but they’ve struggled to a 10th-place spot in the West. Embiid would give them the dominant force they need to finally live up to expectations.
For the 76ers, though, this trade makes no sense. Gobert’s contract is massive, and his production has been underwhelming this season, making him more of a liability than an asset. While Donte DiVincenzo and Nickeil Alexander-Walker are decent role players, this deal lacks the picks or star talent Philly would need to even consider moving Embiid.
New Orleans Pelicans
Potential Trade Offer: Zion Williamson, Herbert Jones, 2025 First-Round Pick (via MIL), 2029 First-Round Pick, 2031 First-Round Pick
This trade is as spicy as it gets. The Pelicans have been hit hard by injuries this season, with Zion Williamson currently sidelined and struggling with fitness issues yet again. At 4-13 and sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference, New Orleans might seriously consider a shake-up. Adding Joel Embiid could immediately bring them back into contention, especially when paired with Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum.
For the 76ers, Zion is a tantalizing prospect. When healthy, he’s a generational talent, averaging 22.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists this season. But his health has been a constant question mark, and building a team around him carries significant risk. Herbert Jones adds elite perimeter defense, and the three first-round picks give Philly a shot at future assets, but everything hinges on Zion’s availability.
New York Knicks
Potential Trade Offer: Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart
This trade is intriguing but feels unlikely given the current context. The Knicks are 4th in the East, and Karl-Anthony Towns is thriving in his first season with the team, averaging 26.1 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. Towns has fit in seamlessly with Jalen Brunson, while Josh Hart continues to be the glue guy, contributing hustle plays, defense, and key rebounds. Hart has become the emotional core of this Knicks roster, making him hard to part with.
For the 76ers, Towns would be a downgrade defensively compared to Embiid, but he offers elite shooting and offensive versatility. Pairing him with Tyrese Maxey could create an exciting offensive duo. Josh Hart’s all-around game and leadership would bolster their roster, but the gap between Embiid and Towns as franchise players remains significant.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Potential Trade Offer: Isaiah Hartenstein, Chet Holmgren, Aaron Wiggins, 2025 First-Round Pick (via MIA), 2025 First-Round Pick, 2026 First-Round Pick (via HOU and/or LAC), 2027 First-Round Pick (LAC Swap), 2028 First-Round Pick
The Thunder, sitting at 12-4 and second in the West, have become a legitimate contender. With an abundance of picks and young talent, it’s only a matter of time before they make a big move—and landing Joel Embiid could be that seismic shift.
This package would be hard for the 76ers to ignore. Chet Holmgren, with his impressive 16.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, already looks like a future superstar and could become the cornerstone of a rebuild. Isaiah Hartenstein adds size and toughness in the frontcourt, while Aaron Wiggins provides a versatile two-way wing. The five first-round picks, including ones from strong draft positions, give Philadelphia massive flexibility for the future.
Pairing Embiid with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander would create a powerhouse core capable of dominating for years. The Thunder’s collection of assets allows them to make a deal like this while still retaining significant flexibility. For the 76ers, if they decide to rebuild, this offer might be the best combination of young talent and draft capital they could ever hope for.
Orlando Magic
Potential Trade Offer: Jonathan Isaac, Cole Anthony, Wendell Carter Jr., 2025 First-Round Pick (via DEN), 2026 First-Round Pick (via PHX or WAS), 2028 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
The Magic are off to a great start at 11-7, showing they’re ready to make some noise in the East as the 3rd seed. Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero have been carrying the load, but adding a superstar like Joel Embiid would completely change the game for them.
This package, though, has its issues. Jonathan Isaac, as talented as he is defensively, can’t seem to stay on the court—his health is always a question mark. Cole Anthony hasn’t been great this year, struggling with consistency and often playing like a ball-stopper. Wendell Carter Jr., who’s been solid for Orlando, is dealing with a foot injury right now, which doesn’t help his case.
The bright side for Philly? The four first-round picks give them plenty of ammo to rebuild if they move Embiid. But let’s be real: trading their MVP big man for a package centered around guys with health issues and inconsistent play feels like a stretch unless they’re fully committing to starting from scratch. For the Magic, it’s a huge gamble, but the idea of putting Embiid next to Wagner and Banchero is one nobody can ignore.
Phoenix Suns
Potential Trade Offer: None
The Suns have made it crystal clear—they’re not breaking up their big three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal. And even if they wanted to entertain a trade for Joel Embiid, the league’s new second apron rules make it nearly impossible. The Suns are well over the second apron, which means they don’t have the flexibility to match Embiid’s $51.4M contract in a deal without gutting their roster.
With Phoenix firmly committed to their current core and sitting at 9-7, they’re focused on competing for a title with what they’ve got. Trading for Embiid just isn’t in the cards financially or strategically.
Portland Trail Blazers
Potential Trade Offer: Deandre Ayton, Anfernee Simons, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick
This deal just doesn’t make sense for either side. The Blazers are fully in rebuild mode, sitting at 7-10 and currently 13th in the West. Even if they somehow landed Joel Embiid, they’d still be stuck in no-man’s land—not good enough to contend and not bad enough to fully rebuild.
Deandre Ayton and Anfernee Simons are solid pieces, but they don’t move the needle for the 76ers. Ayton has shown flashes, but his inconsistency and lack of offensive growth are concerns, while Simons is a talented scorer who doesn’t really fit as a centerpiece for a rebuild. The two first-round picks (2026 and 2028) are decent, but they’re not enough to justify trading away Embiid.
For the Blazers, adding Embiid to a roster that’s still developing around Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, and their young core feels counterproductive. It’s hard to see Portland making this kind of win-now move when their timeline is clearly geared toward the future. This deal would only push them further into mediocrity.
Sacramento Kings
Potential Trade Offer: Domantas Sabonis, Kevin Huerter, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
The Kings are sitting at 8-9 and away from a play-in spot, even after adding DeMar DeRozan this year to bolster their squad. The question is: are they ready to move Domantas Sabonis, their hub on offense, to take a swing at Joel Embiid?
Sabonis has been his usual productive self, averaging 19.9 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 6.5 assists this season. His playmaking is vital for Sacramento’s system, especially with De’Aaron Fox thriving off the ball. Kevin Huerter would add shooting and spacing, and the two first-round picks sweeten the deal for Philly.
For the 76ers, Sabonis would be a significant downgrade defensively compared to Embiid, but his versatility and offensive skills could help them remain competitive. Pairing Sabonis with Tyrese Maxey could create a dangerous offensive duo, but the lack of rim protection might hurt them in the long run.
San Antonio Spurs
Potential Trade Offer: Keldon Johnson, Harrison Barnes, Jeremy Sochan, 2025 First-Round Pick (via ATL), 2025 First-Round Pick (via CHI), 2027 First-Round Pick (via ATL), 2028 First-Round Pick
If the Spurs pull the trigger on this deal, pairing Joel Embiid with Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul could end the league as we know it. The potential of having two elite big men—one dominating the paint and the other doing everything else—is downright scary. For San Antonio, this would be a bold “win now” move, and with Wemby already living up to the hype, adding Embiid makes them instant contenders.
For the 76ers, though, this deal would signal a complete rebuild. Jeremy Sochan is the standout young talent in the package and could become a cornerstone alongside Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and whatever assets they’d get if they decide to move Paul George as well. Sochan’s defensive versatility and high motor make him an exciting piece for a young core. Keldon Johnson and Harrison Barnes provide reliable scoring and veteran leadership to stay competitive in the short term.
Toronto Raptors
Potential Trade Offer: Bruce Brown, Jakob Poeltl, Gradey Dick, Ochai Agbaji, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick
The Raptors are struggling hard this season, sitting at 4-13 and looking like a team in full-on tank mode. Injuries have hit them, and even with Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley on big contracts, they haven’t been able to get anything going. Making a massive move for Joel Embiid would be a bold swing to save their season and immediately vault them back into contention.
For the 76ers, this is a pure rebuild package. Gradey Dick has shown flashes as a scorer, Ochai Agbaji is a decent young piece, and Jakob Poeltl can hold down the paint, but none of these guys are moving the needle like Embiid does. The real appeal here is the three first-round picks, which would give Philly plenty of flexibility to build for the future if they’re ready to blow it up.
On Toronto’s side, the idea of pairing Embiid with Barnes and Barrett is spicy, but gutting their depth and shipping out picks might leave them too thin to really compete. It’s a big gamble for a team that’s already in a tough spot, but hey, desperate times call for desperate measures.
Utah Jazz
Potential Trade Offer: John Collins, Collin Sexton, Cody Williams, 2025 First-Round Pick (via MIN), 2026 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick (via CLE), 2028 First-Round Pick
The Jazz are stuck at 4-12 and near the bottom of the West, showing little signs of life this season. Lauri Markkanen hasn’t been close to his All-Star level from last year, struggling to stay efficient and consistent on a team that just isn’t clicking. With their current roster lacking real firepower, swinging for Joel Embiid in the offseason might be the kind of blockbuster they need to become relevant again.
For Philly, this package is a decent rebuilding start but far from perfect. John Collins has been solid but unspectacular, and Sexton’s role has shrunk to more of a spark off the bench than a core player. Cody Williams has upside, but he’s far from a sure thing. The real value here is in the four first-round picks, giving the Sixers plenty of flexibility if they decide to blow it all up and start over.
For the Jazz, adding Embiid would instantly put them back in the conversation, especially alongside Markkanen in the frontcourt. But it’s a risky move—gutting your future and giving up young assets for a win-now superstar on a team that’s still far from competing. It’s bold, but Utah might not be able to resist the allure of turning things around fast.
Washington Wizards
Potential Trade Offer: Kyle Kuzma, Jordan Poole, Jonas Valanciunas
The Wizards throwing together a package like this for Joel Embiid would be a massive stretch. Sure, Kuzma and Poole can score, and Valanciunas gives you a solid veteran presence in the paint, but none of these players come close to Embiid’s level. For the 76ers, this deal would feel like a slap in the face—swapping the reigning MVP for a couple of mid-tier players and no future picks makes zero sense.
From Washington’s perspective, this doesn’t add up either. They’re clearly in rebuilding mode and sitting near the bottom of the standings, and bringing in Embiid with this roster would just keep them stuck in NBA purgatory—not good enough to contend, not bad enough to land a top draft pick.
For Philly, Embiid is way too productive to settle for a deal like this. Even if they decide to rebuild, they’d want young talent and draft picks, not guys like Poole or Kuzma, who haven’t lived up to their contracts. This is a “hard pass” for both teams, no matter how you look at it.