Philadelphia 76ers listed as possible trade destination for Kawhi Leonard

According to ESPN’s latest report, the representation for the Spurs’ star might want him playing in a bigger market — like the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Kawhi Leonard situation rivals Markelle Fultz‘s shoulder troubles when it comes to the oddest NBA storylines this season. He missed all but nine games with a quad injury we don’t know much about, while Tony Parker basically said he’s not buying Leonard’s excuse.

Now, ESPN has a new report — and it’s a doozy.

The report goes through countless new details, ranging from the doctors Kawhi is visiting in New York to potential motiviation behind his camp’s decision to keep him out of San Antonio. Part of the reason might be their desire to get Leonard to a bigger market, such as the Philadelphia 76ers.

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"Multiple league sources also told ESPN that the Spurs have grown worried that Leonard’s group has an ulterior motive to fray the relationship and get Leonard traded to a larger market like Los Angeles (Leonard’s hometown) or New York or Philadelphia (Robertson lives in New Jersey). — ESPN"

This should be viewed as positive news for Sixers fans. Even if you don’t want Kawhi specifically — note: you should — this could point to big-name stars beginning to consider Philly as a legitimate destination. We’ve already seen the rumors surrounding LeBron James‘ impending free agency, while Paul George‘s name continues to pop up as well.

With regards to Kawhi, it’s tough to find a better fit on the wing. He’s capable of spacing the floor and playing off of Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, while his isolation prowess could prove beneficial in games like last night, when the Sixers’ shooters don’t carry their weight offensively.

Philly has lacked another perimeter creator all season. Markelle Fultz has always been thought of as the long-term solution, but there are still lingering questions surrounding his shot. Leonard is one of the 10 best players in the league and somebody who could elevate the Sixers to favorites in the Eastern Conference.

Adding Leonard also brings defensive benefits. He’s one of the best individual wing defenders in the league, locking down opposing teams’ best players and using his long arms to interupt passing lanes and force turnovers.

If the Sixers ran out a lineup including Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Robert Covington and Kawhi Leonard, folks miiiiiight have some issues scoring on them. It wouldn’t be a stretch to call that group the best defensive core in the league.

The biggest factor in all of this, of course, is Leonard’s health. He has faced multiple injury problems over the course of his career, with his most recent quad episode leaving plenty of doubt about his ability to stay healthy on a yearly basis.

Assuming everything checks out with the Sixers’ medical staff, though, Leonard is the kind of risk worth taking. He’d give the Sixers a legitimate superstar alongside two players who are quickly approaching that status.

Next: 3 adjustments the Sixers should consider for Game 2

I would venture to say that Brett Brown and the Sixers’ culture wouldn’t have any issues adopting Leonard’s personality either. If Bryan Colangelo has a chance to make this happen, he has to consider doing so.

Kawhi Leonard’s camp could be pushing for a move to Philly

By Christopher Kline | May 1, 2018

According to ESPN’s latest report, the representation for the Spurs’ star might want him playing in a bigger market — like the Philadelphia 76ers.