When all the Philadelphia 76ers centers are healthy and active, the depth chart isn’t working for the franchise and they should try to change that.
Leading up to this NBA Trade Deadline, The Sixer Sense has cover 3 potential trade targets for the point guard, shooting guard, small forward and power forward positions. It seems only fitting to take a look at potential targets for the Philadelphia 76ers at the center spot as well.
Joel Embiid is the clear cut center for the franchise as he’s one of the team’s two cornerstone players. It’s true that he’s always struggles with staying healthy, but when healthy he’s the most dominate center in the NBA. He’s also just made his third All-Star appearance in just four seasons.
Despite being the Sixers starting power forward, Al Horford is also the club’s primary backup center. When he’s in as the center, the club is relatively successful. It’s clear that Horford does better at center versus power forward. He’s a perfect insurance policy for Embiid and he’s more involved in the offense when he’s playing at center.
Kyle O’Quinn is a quietly good big man. He doesn’t always get minutes because Embiid and Horford usually eat up all the playing time at the position. Whenever he does play, he’s a good screener and rebounder, with some solid passing skills.
Lastly, the Sixers have Norvel Pelle who’s 45-days of his two-way contract is all used up so his future is uncertain. Unless O’Quinn or Horford is traded without taking another big man back, Pelle won’t be able to play with Philly again until the G-League’s season is over. When he does play, he’s provided solid rebounding and defense.
There’s no doubt that the Sixers have better depth at center this year than last. However, if they did decide to make changes to the foundation of the roster, they could improve other areas of need while maintaining the quality of depth at center.