Philadelphia 76ers rumors: Markieff Morris a potential target at deadline
The Philadelphia 76ers have another power forward on the mind.
The Feb. 6 trade deadline looms, and everyone expects the Philadelphia 76ers to make a move. While no concrete discussions have been reported, the Sixers have been connected to a handful of names. A new name showed up on the radar this afternoon, according to The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor — Markieff Morris.
Frankly, it’s a bit strange to see another power forward linked to the Sixers. The last thing Philadelphia needs is another power forward. Still, Morris is on an affordable contract, and he’s a legitimate talent. He’s at least an upgrade over Mike Scott in the rotation.
The Sixers would need to package some minimum contracts to match Morris’ $3.2 million contract. All things considered, it’s not terrible value. If Trey Burke and Jonah Bolden, for example, is enough to move the needle — plus some second-round picks, perhaps — then fine, make the move.
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What the Sixers can’t do is exchange significant assets for Morris. Zhaire Smith is off the table. Matisse Thybulle and Furkan Korkmaz are off the table. Mike Scott’s money needs to be used to fill a more pressing need. If the Sixers trade for Morris, it cannot be the only move.
The lesser of the Morris twins is shooting 39.3 percent from deep on the season, a strong number. The Sixers need shooters, and if Scott is gone, Morris would have little issue filling the void (?) as a stretch four. He would pair nicely with Joel Embiid when Al Horford sits.
Morris has a broader skill set than Scott — he has a fluid face-up game, whether it’s patiently stepping into mid-range jumpers or working mismatches in the post. The Sixers, of course, would need his three-point shooting above all else.
In addition to the potential basketball fit, Morris is a Philly native and someone who could fill Scott’s void as a fan favorite. That’s not important on the basketball court, but it’s nice to give the fanbase players to cheer for. Morris encompasses the city’s blue collar attitude.
Next. 3 potential trade targets at power forward. dark
When the dust settles tomorrow afternoon, expect the Sixers to harbor at least a couple new players — it’s hard to imagine Elton Brand sitting quietly as the Sixers continue to look more and more incompatible.