Potential Philadelphia 76ers targets remaining on the open market
By Will Rietzke
Who might the Philadelphia 76ers target as the offseason continues?
Before the 2018-2019 season gets underway, the Philadelphia 76ers may want to keep their eye out to add to one more piece heading into the season, especially after the broken bone in the foot of rookie wing Zhaire Smith.
In order to do so, I’ve compiled a list of the top four most likely targets the Sixers look at before the season starts. I’m not saying a deal gets done, but the front office will certainly do their due diligence in order to build the most competitive roster as possible heading into this crucial season.
Jamal Crawford
This should come as no surprise, as there have been reports of interest coming from both sides here in recent weeks. Crawford prefers to “take a team to the next level” rather than just join a ready-made superteam (like Cousins and Golden State).
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So, Crawford has expressed interest in joining a young Sixers squad in need of veteran leadership, playoff experience, and reliability in crunch time. Crawford adds a unique ability to score in bunches once he gets off, and his handles rank in the top of the league among point guards. He could serve as a solid backup for Simmons, and he wouldn’t cost much.
Kyle Korver
Korver and the Sixers have been linked together from reports about a month ago, mentioning a potential trade sending Jerryd Bayless and future second round pick(s) to Cleveland for the veteran sharpshooter.
Korver fills an obvious and desperate need for three-point shooting, as Ben Simmons’ lack of a perimeter jumper but incredible playmaking ability calls for as much three-point firepower as possible. This move makes sense, and once Cleveland lowers their asking price for Korver, I wouldn’t be surprised if he makes a return home to Philly.
Trevor Booker
Signing Booker to a vet minimum deal wouldn’t come as a surprise, as he played for the Sixers last season and already knows the system well. He’s a good hustle guy that contributes in ways that don’t always show up on the stat sheet. At the very least, he’ll give you some solid boards and get back on defense.
Rodney Hood
Hood is currently a restricted free agent, but has not accepted Cleveland’s qualifying offer as of yet. He is a veteran wing that would provide solid defense and comes with playoff experience, after going to the Finals last season with LeBron and the Cavs.
He’s well liked around the league, and could contribute as a vocal locker-room leader.