Philadelphia 76ers: Grading recently proposed Bleacher Report trades

Mavericks

Like the Philadelphia 76ers, the Dallas Mavericks have a dynamic young duo in Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. Unlike the duo of Simmons and Joel Embiid for Philly, Dallas’ young duo fit perfectly together and the Mavs need to figure out the best way to add talent around them. The hypothetical Bleacher Report does that for the Mavericks.

The Mavs get a big man that fits well next to Porzingis in Horford and the Sixers get some nice depth. Horford’s playmaking, defense, pick-and-roll skills, and floor spacing will be a perfect complement to Dallas’ strengths. He also allows Porzingis to play the power forward spot as well.

Despite getting some nice role players in Delon Wright, Dwight Powell, and to a less extent Justin Jackson, they don’t equal Horford’s talent. Wright is a solid backup point guard and while he’s having a good year from the 3-point line, he’s not good for his career from deep.

Powell is a starting level big man in the NBA. He can play either power forward or center but has been at center for the last few seasons. Before he had a season-ending injury, he was averaging 9.4 points and 5.7 rebounds. He’s in the same boat as Zeller as a quality backup for Embiid.

Jackson isn’t panning out as an NBA because he’s not a great defender and can’t space the floor effectively. He doesn’t provide much at all and appears to be a throw-in for this trade. Swartz did make this point in favor of this trade for Philly.

"“For Philly, getting off Horford’s contract without giving up a draft pick is a win here.”"

It’s not fair value for Horford’s skills, but the Sixers get off of Horford’s bad deal and don’t have to give up a pick to do so. Which should make this trade palatable for most 76ers fans.

Grade: B-