- 76ers eyeing Clippers’ Leonard, George
- Injuries limited the duo to 38 joint games
- The team’s strategy around Embiid remains a key focus
The Philadelphia 76ers could be setting their sights on LA Clippers superstars, Kawhi Leonard or Paul George as potential additions to their roster in the 2024 season. Brian Windhorst, a respected NBA insider, recently shed light on the situation.
With Leonard and George’s contracts set to expire next summer, and no signs of an imminent extension, Windhorst suggests the 76ers could be in a prime position to make a move. He commented, “Philadelphia right now has positioned itself to be a big free-agent player. They could swoop in and go after Paul or Kawhi. While they prefer LA, a move to Philly might not be the worst for them.”
Imagine this duo 👀
Brian Windhorst: “Philadelphia right now has positioned itself to be a big free-agent player. I guess Philadelphia could swoop in and go after [Paul George] or [Kawhi Leonard].” pic.twitter.com/SLVNK635om
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 21, 2023
Despite being a formidable duo, Leonard and George have grappled with injuries, resulting in them playing just 38 games together in the 2022-23 season. This lack of court time has sparked rumors of a possible split, even though the Clippers‘ hierarchy, including Steve Ballmer, continues to back both athletes.
The speculation brings up several intriguing possibilities, especially considering James Harden’s future with the 76ers and how the franchise intends to build around Joel Embiid.
Sixers Sign Kelly Oubre Jr. On One Year Deal
The Philadelphia 76ers, amid the whirlwind surrounding James Harden’s trade request, have made a pivotal move by acquiring Kelly Oubre Jr. on a one-year contract. This strategic signing can be seen as a proactive approach by the Sixers to mitigate potential gaps in their roster if Harden’s trade materializes.
Oubre Jr., with his commendable performance in the previous season with the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 20.2 points, solidifies his reputation as a potent player on the wing. His offensive prowess combined with his reliable perimeter defense makes him a valuable asset for any team, more so for the Sixers, who have long felt the absence of a versatile wing player capable of providing both shot creation and floor spacing.
Free agent G/F Kelly Oubre Jr., is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell ESPN. Oubre — who averaged 20 points for Charlotte last season — could get significant opportunity on the wing with the uncertainty around James Harden.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) September 18, 2023
With a role as the sixth man in Charlotte, Oubre Jr.’s transition to the 76ers is likely to witness an elevation in his responsibilities. Considering the current team dynamics, he is poised to emerge as the starting forward for the Sixers, underlining the team’s faith in his capabilities.
For the 76ers, this is quintessentially a low-risk, high-reward signing. With the inclusion of Oubre Jr., Philadelphia gets an infusion of talent and energy on the court, potentially boosting their chances for a significant playoff run in the challenging Eastern Conference. As the season unfolds, Oubre Jr.’s contribution will be closely watched, with hopes of him becoming the team’s x-factor in their quest for glory.
Joel Embiid Could Leave The Sixers
The foundation of the Philadelphia 76ers appears to be on shaky ground as rumors intensify about the potential departure of the franchise’s cornerstone, Joel Embiid. ESPN analysts believe Embiid might be the next superstar to demand an exit from his current team. Such an exit would undoubtedly mark the end of the era tagged “The Process” in Philly.
Despite being with the Sixers for nearly a decade, and even clinching the MVP title last season with an impressive average of 33.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists, Joel Embiid has faced challenges in translating his regular-season success to the playoffs. The supporting cast and front office decisions have frequently been under the scanner, with the recent James Harden situation further complicating matters.
As uncertainties loom over the franchise’s future, potential landing spots for Embiid are already being speculated. Big market teams like the New York Knicks are rumored to be at the forefront, backed by an arsenal of young talents and draft picks. But any potential move would be intricate, considering Embiid’s contract with the Sixers extends until 2027. The forthcoming NBA season promises to be a defining one for both Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers.
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