Why did Philadelphia 76ers trade up for Anzejs Pasecniks?

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NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 22: Anzejs Pasecniks walks to the stage after being drafted 25th overall by the Orlando Magic during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Lawrie/Getty Images) /

Reason IV: Draft and stash and … trade

I don’t like myself for saying this, but I would be remiss if I did not touch on the possibility of a draft, stash, and trade. Right now the NBA is becoming ever more fickle over the players on the roster. When the Boston Celtics trade Isaiah Thomas, you can bet the days of team loyalty to a single play come into question.

The new NBA valuation

While placing a young man into an NBA roster, there are plenty of things to consider. How does that player fit? What value does he bring to the team?

But in the days of former executive Sam Hinkie, another question arose. What will other teams trade for this player? While that depends on the team, the future, and the availability of NBA centers in the 2018 Draft, you can bet that president Bryan Colangelo knows the player.

Convertible value

Colangelo, for all that he brings to the Philadelphia 76ers, has a fine eye for NBA talent overseas. He knows who is worth signing to contracts, and who is not. The fact that he moved up for Pasecniks suggests that he sees plenty of value there. And that could be more than just a player for this team.

The NBA is a fluid environment now. Players once thought untradeable are traded. Players thought to be key to a winning team’s success now test free agency. In this environment, it’s not uncommon for drafted players to be considered for trades as well.