Philadelphia 76ers
Let’s start on what Philadelphia gives up.
Two first round picks, one future swap aren’t nothing. Maxey and Thybulle were late first round picks.
Speaking of the players, Maxey appears to be a dynamic scoring guard. He would be a tough young player to let go, and yet he could have been drafted 20th overall and this wouldn’t be discussed. It shouldn’t cause Morey to freeze now.
Matisse Thybulle is one of the best defensive guards in the league and causes a smothering pairing with Ben Simmons. Yet this combo doesn’t yield results as their two-man lineup ranks near the bottom of duo’s involving Simmons, per NBA.com and Doc Rivers has already relegated Thybulle’s minutes typically leaving him behind Milton and Maxey. For all his prowess on the defensive end he isn’t a perfect fit with Joel Embiid, either. Ultimately, his skill will be less missed than his fame off the court.
Danny Green… He has somehow earned a less than deserving reputation despite being the only back-to-back champion in the NBA. Again, though; changes nothing. He is on the final year of his deal and might not be on the court in the final minutes of playoff games.
Scott serves as cash fodder. His presence will be missed in that he was a somewhat bigger body who could spread the floor. He should be easily replaced via buyout and minimum free agents.
The biggest piece is Ben Simmons. Philadelphia fans don’t need to be reminded of his potential.
Problem is that despite his potential, he hasn’t proven capable late in games. Last year, Simmons averaged less than three points per fourth quarter and muddies the lane for Embiid. Come playoffs, late in game, the floor will congest, and Philadelphia can’t spend another playoff waiting to see where/what Simmons role is. That question had to have some semblance of direction by now.
Philadelphia knows it will be giving up a lot in a 24 year-old all-star, two recent first-rounders, future picks, etc., but putting together a contender doesn’t come cheap. Championships are built on talent and how that talent comes together.
So, let’s focus on what would be coming together.
Bradley Beal and Kyle Lowry.
We’ve touched on it lightly, but Beal’s numbers speak for themselves. He is currently averaging roughly 35 points, five rebounds, and five assists. His creation, his floor spacing, his off-ball playmaking would all be showcased alongside Embiid creating a modern day rendition of Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler.
Beal has been clamoring to play for a winner. He would get his chance in Philadelphia.
In addition, Kyle Lowry gets to return home while competing for an NBA championship. We mentioned how some Toronto fans might never forgive a Lowry trade, but many will understand they’re not winning, they get a great haul, and send their hero back to his original hometown. He would provide proven, veteran leadership while handling lead guard defensive duties, spreading the floor, and dictating the tempo.
Ultimately, this package is similar to the one Houston apparently wanted from Philadelphia. They asked for three first rounders, Maxey, Thybulle, and Simmons. I praised Morey for saying no. This trade adds Green and moves one pick to a swap. That’s a better position for Philadelphia. It doesn’t return Harden, but it does bring in more production with two guards who have combined for 53 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists per game while bringing star power and increased motivation.
Philadelphia would instantaneously be threats to the Brooklyn Nets and Milwaukee Bucks as they make a second attempt at a four star group this time headlined by Embiid and all-star shooting.
Moving forward, Washington enters their rebuild with draft capital and a 24-year old, perennial all-star. Toronto gets real assets in exchange for a final couple games with Lowry, and Philadelphia gets stars and shooting to give Embiid a real chance to show his dominance.
It’s a win-win-win. (Michael scott gif).