The Philadelphia 76ers have more than impressed this season after moving on from James Harden, the player who led the NBA in assists last year and who helped Joel Embiid earn regular-season MVP. With a slew of newcomers and the arrival of Tyrese Maxey as an All-Star, the 76ers have been winning consistently, going 10-3 to start the season. Embiid is averaging 31.9 points per game this season while adding 11.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists, once again placing his name in the MVP race.
The Sixers rank third in offense this season even without James Harden, showing that they will be just fine going forward. However, nobody will place the 76ers ahead of the Boston Celtics or even the Milwaukee Bucks in terms of the probability of coming out of the East because of the fact only Embiid and Maxey are big-name players right now. To overcome that, the 76ers might be looking for a third star.
The 76ers have plenty of cap space next season since the bulk of their players will be free agents (Tobias Harris, Marcus Morris, Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, De’Anthony Melton) but that actually makes them a buyer. Teams love expiring contracts and will be willing to deal with the 76ers if it means clearing cap space for the long term and also accepting some first-round picks. Here are five blockbuster trade ideas for the Philadelphia 76ers to continue elevating their play and have the edge in coming out of the Eastern Conference. Remember, the likes of Morris, Batum, and Covington can only be traded after December 30th due to trading restrictions.
A Nice Addition To The Frontcourt
The first deal could improve the 76ers’ frontcourt and add a mix of scoring, rebounding, and versatility as a long-term replacement for Tobias Harris. The name is Kyle Kuzma, former 2017-18 All-Rookie Team selection.
Trade Details
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards Receive: De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
Kyle Kuzma brings a valuable combination of scoring ability, versatility, and rebounding to the 76ers. His scoring versatility, including his three-point shooting, could complement the inside presence of Joel Embiid and the playmaking of Tyrese Maxey. Kuzma’s skill set may offer the 76ers an additional offensive weapon and help spread the floor. This season, he is averaging 23.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game on 35.4% shooting from three for the Wizards.
At 28 years old, Kuzma fits into the 76ers’ timeline, potentially serving as a long-term replacement for Tobias Harris. If he continues to develop, there’s the possibility that Kuzma could evolve into an All-Star player, adding another dynamic element to Philadelphia’s roster.
However, the cost of the trade is noteworthy. Giving up De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, and two future first-round picks is a substantial investment. The Washington Wizards receive a mix of a young and talented guard in Melton, a veteran presence in Morris, and additional assets in the form of draft picks.
Adding Another Clutch Option In Big Games
Another trade that would definitely improve the 76ers is one for six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan. DeRozan is not an elite three-point shooter but he is a go-to scorer down the stretch and will create an All-Star-quality starting lineup.
Trade Details
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: DeMar DeRozan
Chicago Bulls Receive: De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, Furkan Korkmaz, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
In this proposed trade scenario, the Philadelphia 76ers acquire DeMar DeRozan from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, Furkan Korkmaz, the 2029 First-Round Pick, and the 2030 First-Round Pick. This trade brings an established and accomplished veteran to the 76ers in DeRozan.
DeMar DeRozan’s prestige as a six-time All-Star and reputation as one of the best mid-range scorers of his generation make him a valuable addition to the 76ers. His ability to thrive in clutch situations and serve as a reliable go-to option in big games is particularly appealing, providing the team with an alternative scoring option when Joel Embiid is facing double-teams. DeRozan’s scoring prowess, especially in the mid-range, adds a different dimension to the 76ers’ offensive arsenal.
Despite being 34 years old, DeRozan is highlighted as having two more years at a high level. His scoring ability, size at 6’6″, and athleticism remain assets that can contribute to the team’s success. Additionally, the mention of DeRozan’s capability to score 20 points seemingly effortlessly underscores his scoring consistency.
On the flip side, the cost of the trade involves parting ways with De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, and two future first-round picks. The Chicago Bulls receive a mix of a young and talented guard, a veteran presence, and future assets in return for an aging star which allows them to fully rebuild.
A New Twin-Towers Frontcourt With Pascal Siakam
A third option would be to form a modern “twin-towers” pairing of Pascal Siakam and Joel Embiid. The Toronto Raptors might be sellers since they are under .500, and Siakam is their most valued commodity who can bring in assets, which is to the 76ers’ benefit.
Trade Details
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Pascal Siakam
Toronto Raptors Receive: De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, Nicolas Batum, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
This trade envisions the creation of a modern twin towers dynamic with Joel Embiid, emphasizing Siakam’s versatility and potential synergy with the team. Pascal Siakam is a player who can push the pace with the ball, space the floor, and contribute on the boards.
This versatility aligns well with the modern style of play and complements Embiid’s strengths in the post. Siakam’s bonafide All-Star status and being considered one of the best at his position add significant value to the 76ers’ roster.
At 29 years old, Siakam brings a combination of experience and prime athleticism to the team. The mention of reuniting with Nick Nurse, the coach under whom he won a championship in 2019, adds an interesting narrative to the trade. Siakam’s familiarity with Nurse’s system could facilitate a smooth transition into the 76ers’ lineup.
Furthermore, Siakam is highlighted as a chemistry guy who can maintain high energy levels in Philadelphia. This emphasis on chemistry and energy suggests that Siakam’s personality and work ethic could positively impact the team’s culture.
On the flip side, the trade involves parting ways with De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, Nicolas Batum, and two future first-round picks, signaling a significant investment for the Raptors in terms of both immediate and future assets. Toronto needs picks for their star so two of them and three expiring contracts fit into their plans to rebuild around Scottie Barnes.
An Unlikely Deal That Could Take Philly To Another Level
There is a deal available right now for the 76ers but it seems very unlikely. Tyler Herro is the most talented offensive player for the Miami Heat and they are currently rolling with seven wins in their last 10 games. However, things change and if Herro becomes available, the 76ers can pounce.
Trade Details
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Tyler Herro
Miami Heat Receive: De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, Furkan Korkmaz, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
While acknowledging the unlikelihood of such a trade, this trade proposal is contingent on the idea that Herro becomes available, presenting the 76ers with an opportunity to offer enticing contracts and draft picks.
Tyler Herro, at 23 years old, is emphasized as a dynamic scorer, averaging 22.9 points per game in the current season. His ability to contribute significantly on the offensive end, coupled with his impressive three-point shooting at 41.0% this season and a career rate of 38.4%, makes him an attractive addition to the 76ers. The mention of his shooting prowess highlights the spacing and floor-spacing capability he could bring to the team.
The trade is presented as a move that could help Miami re-tool quickly, suggesting that the 76ers’ offer of contracts and draft picks could be appealing to the Heat in a potential rebuilding scenario.
The fit of Tyler Herro alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey is briefly touched upon, implying that Herro’s scoring ability and three-point shooting would complement Embiid’s inside presence and Maxey’s playmaking skills. The potential synergy between these players could enhance the 76ers’ offensive versatility.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that the trade’s feasibility is deemed very unlikely, likely due to Herro’s young age, promising performance, and high potential. The success of such a trade, if it were to happen, would depend on Herro’s seamless integration into the 76ers’ system, chemistry with existing players, and the overall impact on the team’s depth and competitiveness.
The Best Trade On The Market For The 76ers
By far the best and most realistic deal on the table for the 76ers is a move for All-Star shooting guard Zach LaVine. LaVine is involved in trade rumors and it might be affecting the player’s mood and performance right now, meaning the 76ers can elevate their title chance significantly in a blockbuster deal for him.
Trade Details
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, Nicolas Batum, 2029 First-Round Pick, 2030 First-Round Pick
In this proposed trade scenario, the Philadelphia 76ers acquire Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls in exchange for De’Anthony Melton, Marcus Morris, Nicolas Batum, the 2029 First-Round Pick, and the 2030 First-Round Pick. The trade is presented as the “best and most realistic deal right now,” citing ongoing trade rumors involving LaVine and his fit with the 76ers.
Zach LaVine, at 28 years old, is portrayed as a prolific scorer, having averaged at least 21 points per game for six straight seasons. His ability to shoot, highlighted by a career 38.2% from three, and his supreme athleticism make him an attractive addition to the 76ers. The trade is framed as an opportunity to secure a long-term replacement for a departed player, likely referencing James Harden.
The fit of LaVine alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey is emphasized, suggesting that his shooting and athleticism align well with the team’s needs. The implication is that LaVine could provide the scoring and offensive versatility that complements Embiid’s inside presence and Maxey’s playmaking.
The trade is labeled as the most realistic deal, indicating that the assets offered by the 76ers are seen as reasonable in the current trade landscape. The success of this trade would depend on LaVine’s seamless integration into the 76ers’ system, his chemistry with existing players, and the overall impact on the team’s competitiveness.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls move on from the player they wish to trade and also kickstart their rebuild instead of beating around the bush trying to sneak into the playoffs via the play-in tournament like last season.
