The Sixer Sense
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NBA Rumors: Philadelphia 76ers Linked To Los Angeles Clippers

By Bret Stuter

Feb 23, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) attempt to dribbles past the defense of Orlando Magic forward Jason Smith (14) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Orlando Magic won 124-115. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor (8) attempt to dribbles past the defense of Orlando Magic forward Jason Smith (14) during the second half at Wells Fargo Center. The Orlando Magic won 124-115. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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April 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) shoots against Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
April 20, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) shoots against Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /

Blake Griffin is Expendable

At the 2016 trade deadline, Blake Griffin’s name came up as a possible trade piece for the Los Angeles Clippers. At the time, analysts pointed out that the Los Angeles Clippers were 22-9 without Griffin over the past two seasons and were 13-3 during his absence in the 2015-2016 season.

Since Dario Saric is debating whether or not to come to the US and play for the Philadelphia 76ers, we’ve debated our options in his absence.  But we did not consider filling the spot with a veteran.

You see, the Philadelphia 76ers were linked to Griffin at the 2016 trade deadline, and with the off-season upon us it makes sense that the rumor would resurface – particularly in the wake of the Clippers early exit from the playoffs once more.

At the time, the likely swap would be to move center Jahlil Okafor to the Clippers for Blake Griffin. But over the passing of time, and in consideration of Griffin’s “colorful” background, it may be that the Clippers need to add a piece to the deal to make it happen – perhaps the 2nd round pick of the 2016 draft, or even a minor trade back from 25 to 26 in the first round.

Before the 2015-2016 season ended, the team was under the watch of Sam Hinkie, who valued his key pieces very highly, rejecting any number of offers which are now back in play this off-season.  Perhaps it’s the new perspective of Bryan Colangelo that a veteran is worth more to this team right now than one of his three centers..

Griffin has some intriguing qualities.  In April and May 2015,  he averaged 25.5 points, 12.7 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game during the postseason. He also has the desire to become an elite defender, a role that would be very welcome to the Philadelphia 76ers seeking to tighten up their 107.6 points per game last season, good for 29th in a thirty team league.

Next: Draft And Stash - Optimizing 2016 NBA Draft Picks 24 and 26

It’s been out there since February 2016.  It’s up to you to judge the merits of this scenario.  As always, we are simply summarizing the trades for you to decide.