The Philadelphia 76ers are heading into the 2024 offseason with a lot on their plate. After a disappointing first-round exit at the hands of the New York Knicks, it’s clear that changes are needed to push this team to the next level. The Sixers are projected to have a significant cap space, estimated around $55 million and potentially up to $70 million, which gives them the flexibility to make some big moves.
A major priority will be re-signing Tyrese Maxey, who’s eligible for a max contract extension. His great play will earn him a new deal, which is expected to be worth at least $35 million annually on a max-scale contract. Maxey has shown he can be a legitimate second star alongside Joel Embiid, and keeping him in Philadelphia is crucial for their future success.
There are plenty of rumors swirling about potential superstar acquisitions to pair with Embiid. The Sixers need another star to truly compete, and names like Paul George and Klay Thompson have been mentioned as possible targets. Whether it’s through free agency or trades, Daryl Morey and the front office have to make the right moves to turn this team into a championship contender. Here’s a look at the top targets the Sixers should prioritize this offseason to revamp their roster and make a serious push in the playoffs.
Dream Priorities – LeBron James, Paul George, Jimmy Butler
How The 76ers Can Land LeBron James:
Free Agent Signing
LeBron James, one of the most iconic players in NBA history, is set to become a free agent this offseason. His agent, Rich Paul, has indicated that LeBron will opt out of his $51.4 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers, making him available on the open market. Despite this, it’s widely believed that LeBron will re-sign with the Lakers, given his established life in Los Angeles and his ongoing commitment to the team.
LeBron had another stellar season, averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds in 71 games. Landing LeBron would be a monumental addition for the Sixers, providing a seasoned superstar to pair with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. However, the chances are slim. LeBron has built a strong brand in Southern California, and reports suggest that he prefers to stay on the West Coast. While Philadelphia has the cap space and an attractive roster, the bottom line is that a move for LeBron is highly unlikely, but dreaming of such a scenario is always exciting for fans.
How The 76ers Can Land Paul George:
Free Agent Signing
The Sixers have reportedly set their sights on Paul George, another high-profile name. There are strong rumors that George may decline his player option with the Los Angeles Clippers, making him a free agent. Unlike the scenario with LeBron, acquiring George is a realistic possibility for the Sixers.
This season, George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 74 games. Philadelphia has the cap space to offer George a substantial contract, and adding him to their lineup would provide a significant boost on both ends of the court. George’s versatility as a scorer and defender fits well with the Sixers’ needs, making him a prime target for their offseason ambitions. The Sixers are expected to make a serious push to sign him, which could very well happen given their financial flexibility and competitive roster.
How The 76ers Can Land Jimmy Butler:
76ers receive: Jimmy Butler
Heat receive: Tobias Harris (sign and trade), Buddy Hield (sign and trade), Paul Reed, 2028 first-round pick
Jimmy Butler has had a turbulent offseason with the Miami Heat, largely due to disagreements over a potential max contract extension. This has sparked rumors about his future with the team, and the Sixers could be a potential destination.
Butler averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 60 games this season. For the Sixers, bringing Butler back to Philadelphia via a trade could be challenging this year. However, the proposed trade package including a sign and trade with Tobias Harris, Buddy Hield, Paul Reed, and a 2028 first-round pick could pique Miami’s interest, especially if their relationship with Butler continues to sour. While a trade for Butler this offseason seems unlikely, it could become a more realistic scenario next year when Butler is 35 and potentially looking for a new team to lead.
In conclusion, while LeBron James is a dream addition that is unlikely to happen, Paul George represents a more realistic and impactful target for the Sixers. Meanwhile, a trade for Jimmy Butler might be something to watch for in the future, especially if his situation in Miami doesn’t improve.
High Priorities – Brandon Ingram, DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine
How The 76ers Can Land Brandon Ingram:
76ers receive: Brandon Ingram
Pelicans receive: Tobias Harris, Buddy Hield, 2028 first-round pick
Brandon Ingram had a tumultuous 2023-24 season with the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite his solid averages of 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, Ingram’s season was marred by inconsistency and injuries. His performance dipped further in the playoffs, where the Pelicans were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Ingram’s playoff stats were disappointing, with him averaging just 14.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, shooting a mere 34.5% from the field and 25% from three-point range.
Rumors have been circulating that the Pelicans are looking to move on from Ingram. He’s entering the final year of his contract, which makes him a prime candidate for a trade. Additionally, the Pelicans are reportedly more interested in building around younger players like Trey Murphy III, who is also eligible for an extension. This has led many to believe that Ingram will be on the trading block this offseason.
The Philadelphia 76ers have been linked to Ingram as a potential trade target. For the Sixers, acquiring Ingram would provide a significant upgrade over Tobias Harris, offering a more dynamic scoring option and a younger, more versatile player. The proposed trade package of Tobias Harris, Buddy Hield, and a 2028 first-round pick could be enticing for the Pelicans, especially if they are looking to retool around Zion Williamson and prioritize future flexibility.
How The 76ers Can Land DeMar DeRozan:
76ers receive: DeMar DeRozan
Pelicans receive: Kelly Oubre, Tobias Harris, No. 16 pick
DeMar DeRozan, known for his scoring prowess and veteran leadership, is set to enter free agency this offseason. This past season, DeRozan averaged 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, demonstrating his continued ability to contribute at a high level. However, there are strong indications that DeRozan may prefer to stay with the Chicago Bulls, necessitating a sign-and-trade if the 76ers wish to acquire him.
In a potential sign-and-trade deal, the 76ers could send Kelly Oubre, Tobias Harris, and the No. 16 pick to Chicago. This would not only clear some cap space for the Bulls but also provide them with valuable assets in return. Oubre brings athleticism and defense, while Harris offers scoring and versatility. The draft pick would give the Bulls a chance to add young talent to their roster.
DeRozan’s addition to the Sixers would be a significant boost. His ability to score in isolation, his mid-range proficiency, and his experience would fit well with the Sixers’ needs. Playing alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, DeRozan could take on the role of a secondary scorer and playmaker, reducing the offensive load on Embiid. Furthermore, his experience in high-pressure situations would be invaluable in the playoffs.
The Sixers’ ability to land DeRozan depends on their negotiation skills and the Bulls’ willingness to part ways with their star in exchange for a solid return. If successful, this move would make the Sixers a more formidable contender in the Eastern Conference.
Medium Priorities – D’Angelo Russell, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
How The 76ers Can Land D’Angelo Russell:
Free Agent Signing
D’Angelo Russell is expected to decline his $18.0 million player option with the Los Angeles Lakers and become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Russell, who averaged 18.0 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 6.3 assists this season, is looking for a long-term, lucrative deal after his stint with the Lakers.
The Lakers are reportedly interested in upgrading their roster around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, which could mean that Russell will seek opportunities elsewhere. Teams like the Orlando Magic have shown interest in Russell, but the Philadelphia 76ers could also be a strong fit for the talented guard.
For the Sixers, adding Russell would address their need for a dynamic playmaker and scorer at the point guard position. His ability to create his own shot and facilitate for others would complement Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, providing the team with another offensive weapon. Russell’s experience and skill set make him a valuable addition, and the Sixers have the cap space to offer him a competitive contract. His presence could help the team improve their offensive flow and provide more scoring options, making Philadelphia a more formidable contender in the Eastern Conference.
How The 76ers Can Land Kentavious Caldwell-Pope:
Free Agent Signing
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope holds a $15 million player option with the Denver Nuggets for the 2024-25 season. There is speculation that he might decline this option to explore free agency, given his value as a 3-and-D player. This season, KCP has been a crucial part of the Nuggets’ success, but Denver might struggle to match a high offer from another team due to their cap constraints.
For the 76ers, Caldwell-Pope would be an excellent fit. His defensive prowess on the wing and ability to knock down three-pointers would address two significant needs for Philadelphia. Playing alongside Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid, KCP would provide spacing and defensive reliability, making him a valuable asset in their rotation. His championship experience with the Lakers adds another layer of value, as he knows what it takes to win at the highest level.
Philadelphia has the cap space to offer KCP a competitive contract, and the opportunity to play with a contender like the Sixers could be very appealing for him. Adding a player of Caldwell-Pope’s caliber would bolster the Sixers’ perimeter defense and enhance their three-point shooting, making them a more balanced and dangerous team heading into the next season.
Low Priorities – Klay Thompson, Gary Trent Jr.
How The 76ers Can Land Klay Thompson:
Free Agent Signing
Klay Thompson is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, marking a potential end to his long tenure with the Golden State Warriors. The five-time All-Star had an underwhelming season by his standards, averaging 17.9 points per game on .432% shooting from the floor. Despite his dip in performance, Thompson remains a coveted player due to his elite shooting and championship experience.
There have been multiple rumors about Thompson’s future, with teams like the Orlando Magic showing significant interest. The Magic could offer him a substantial contract, but the Philadelphia 76ers might also be an attractive destination. Thompson would fit well alongside Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid, providing the Sixers with much-needed perimeter shooting and veteran leadership. Additionally, the opportunity to join a team with championship aspirations could be enticing for Thompson.
Although Thompson has expressed a preference to stay with the Warriors, disagreements over contract extensions have increased the likelihood that he might test the free-agent market. If the Sixers can present a compelling offer that aligns with Thompson’s financial and competitive goals, they could potentially lure him away from Golden State, adding a high-caliber shooter to their roster.
How The 76ers Can Land Gary Trent Jr.:
Free Agent Signing
Gary Trent Jr. accepted his player option worth $18.6 million for the 2023-24 season with the Toronto Raptors and is set to be a free agent this summer. Given his performance this season, averaging 13.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists, it is expected that Trent will seek a more lucrative long-term deal in free agency.
For the Philadelphia 76ers, Trent would be an excellent addition. His ability to shoot from beyond the arc and defend multiple positions makes him an ideal fit alongside Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. The Sixers need a reliable wing player who can stretch the floor and provide solid defense, and Trent fits this profile perfectly.
Toronto may struggle to match a high offer from the Sixers due to their cap situation, making Philadelphia a more attractive option for Trent. Playing with a contender like the Sixers could enhance his profile and provide him with a better chance at deep playoff runs. If the Sixers can leverage their cap space effectively, they have a good shot at securing Trent’s services, strengthening their roster for the upcoming season.
