The Philadelphia 76ers are at an awkward stage as a franchise. While they have the pieces to compete in the Eastern Conference, featuring two capable franchise players, it is safe to assume that their inconsistencies could prove costly.
This was made abundantly clear in the team’s performance last season. After the team was riddled with injuries, with key players such as Joel Embiid and Paul George missing a significant portion of the regular season, the Sixers careened to the bottom of the East, finishing the season at 13th with a 24-58 record.
Due to their poor performance, several analysts and fans have called for a rebuild, with trades for Embiid and George being presented as a priority. However, when considering recent developments about Embiid’s health and form, Philadelphia could consider an alternative route to make the most of the situation.
Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley presented an interesting trade idea to capitalize on this opportunity, effectively helping the 76ers return to title contention by engaging in a trade with the Utah Jazz. Here’s the trade proposal.
Proposed Trade Details
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Lauri Markkanen
Utah Jazz Receive: Paul George, 2028 first-round pick (LAC), 2028 second-round pick (GSW), 2030 second-round pick (WAS)
Buckley’s trade proposal effectively involves a superstar swap, with George heading to Utah and Lauri Markkanen coming to Philadelphia. Here’s a closer look at the impact of this deal.
The Jazz Come Away With A Draft Haul
The merit for the Utah Jazz in this deal lies in the draft capital. With one first-rounder and two second-rounders, the Jazz would view this trade favorably as it may align with their efforts to increase their draft reserves.
While Paul George’s addition may not be viewed as favorable, having a veteran star with his skill set may still have some value to Utah.
George, when healthy, remains an elite shot-creator and scorer. Though his defensive ability has waned due to recurring injuries, the forward remains a capable defensive presence on the wings.
Last season, the 35-year-old averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, shooting 43.0% from the field and 35.8% from three. Given that he was often the secondary or tertiary option on offense for Philadelphia, with Embiid and Tyrese Maxey often taking over on scoring, George put up respectable figures.
Concerns regarding George’s health may persist, particularly after he announced that he will not be available for training camp. However, the Jazz may see merit in having George act as a mentor for their rookie Ace Bailey.
Bailey’s development and performance in the upcoming season will be a major storyline for Utah. Given how George has commented and acknowledged the Jazz rookie on his podcast, the Jazz could consider having one of the premier two-way players in the modern game potentially guide their future franchise cornerstone.
The 76ers Pair Embiid With Markkanen
While concerns regarding Embiid’s health have also pointed to the possibility of retirement in the near future, the situation this season appears to be quite positive for the superstar. After returning to training camp in improved condition, Philadelphia appears to be cautiously optimistic about its star.
However, with a thin frontcourt rotation, the 76ers must provide their big man with optimum support. On this note, the acquisition of Lauri Markkanen could be viewed positively.
Markkanen saw increased demand this offseason. After drawing trade interest from teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, all chatter effectively came to a halt after Utah expressed its intent to retain the forward. However, following his performances at the 2025 EuroBasket, having led Finland to the semifinals, Markkanen has seen revitalized interest from teams.
The 76ers would do well to acquire a young forward like Markkanen. At 28, he possesses impressive physical tools. Standing 7’0″, the forward has excellent athleticism and agility, which he pairs with his versatile offensive skill set.
Last season, the forward averaged 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds on 42.3% shooting overall and 34.6% from beyond the arc. Given his ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and stretch the floor with his long-range shooting, Markkanen could pair well with another versatile big man like Embiid.
Beyond his pairing with Embiid, Markkanen’s addition also has implications for the rest of the rotation. With the guard rotation of Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain in place, the 76ers would boast one of the most flexible offensive lineups in the league.
With each player being capable enough to create their own shots and create pockets of space on the floor with perimeter shooting, the 76ers could revisit their offensive schemes to create more isolation scoring situations for Embiid.
This trade also provides the Sixers with cap flexibility. With Markkanen’s $46.3 million contract offsetting George’s $51.6 million contract, the 76ers effectively shed $5.3 million in salary. This could be worthwhile in helping them re-sign Quentin Grimes, unless the guard agrees to the qualifying offer before the deadline.
The Jazz Don’t Do This Trade
Buckley’s trade proposal implies immediate benefit for the 76ers, while also catering to the Jazz’s preferred approach in trade negotiations. However, there is a greater likelihood that Utah will not proceed with this deal.
Parting with Markkanen, while in the best interests of other teams, doesn’t align with the Jazz’s plans for the future. Recent reports have indicated that Utah intends to become competitive again in the future. In this regard, key players like Walker Kessler have been identified as pieces that will form the team’s core.
Given how valuable Markkanen has been for the team, parting with him by taking on a long-term contract like George’s, even for three draft picks, may not align with the Jazz’s interests.
