Philadelphia 76ers: 5 trades to mitigate James Harden miss

3 of 5

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Sixers trade hypothetical #3

PHI gets: Kelly Oubre Jr., Mychal Mulder
GSW gets: Mike Scott, Matisse Thybulle, Terrance Ferguson, 2021 NYK 2RP

Klay Thompson’s torn Achilles prompted Golden State to use a trade exception on Kelly Oubre, despite severe tax penalties. Oubre’s Warriors career has started on a sour note. He’s averaging 12.0 points, but attempting 12.4 shots per game to get there. He’s shooting 36.6 percent from the field and 20.0 percent from 3-point range, any semblance of rhythm absent from his game.

The Warriors likely expect Oubre to find his groove at some point, but he’s on an expiring contract and not exactly boosting his trade stock. The Sixers should try to buy low. The Warriors are trying to contend — keyword: trying — but can probably get away with starting Damion Lee.

Philadelphia would benefit from Oubre’s hard-nosed defense and microwave scoring in the second unit. He is a bundle of energy, and if I had to guess, would be quick to establish a fun-loving rapport with Joel Embiid. Oubre has a knack for momentum-swinging plays, and Philadelphia needs to maximize both depth and talent around Joel Embiid this season.

Re-signing Oubre would get tricky, but he’s worth Thybulle — a player who serves little purpose in Philadelphia right now. The Sixers would also give up the Knicks’ second-round pick, which is likely to end up in the 30s. The Warriors get a young wing who doesn’t need the ball (to say it politely) and draft compensation, along with two expiring contracts. That should pique their interest.