Sixers: 5 paths to backcourt upgrade at trade deadline

Sixers trade scenario: Norman Powell, the other Raptors guard

While his name carries less prestige than Kyle Lowry, there are far worse consolation prizes than Norman Powell. The market for the 27-year-old promises to be robust, but the Sixers should have a compelling package available to them. How far Morey is willing to go would determine their chances of landing Powell.

The Raptors will almost assuredly have multiple teams who are willing to trade a first-round pick for Powell. The Sixers should have no qualms about that, especially if it’s this year’s pick, which could end up in the 25-30 range. Whether the Sixers are comfortable including the likes of Matisse Thybulle or Tyrese Maxey, however, is likely the crux of this hypothetical. If not, the Sixers’ pieces are generally less impressive than what Toronto can find from other contenders.

SIXERS RECEIVE: Norman Powell, DeAndre’ Bembry

RAPTORS RECEIVE: Matisse Thybulle, Mike Scott, Terrance Ferguson, Sixers 2021 first-round pick

This season, Powell is averaging 19.5 points on 49.5 percent and 43.4 percent from deep. He will not come cheap. This is probably on the higher side of Powell’s price range — Thybulle and a first is steep, and he’s extended to command a significant contract in free agency — but given the slew of teams who could justifiably pursue Powell, the Sixers may need to operate aggressively.

The Sixers’ lack of perimeter shot creation is well documented. Powell is a high-volume shooter who provides plenty of punch off the dribble. He would fit quite well in Philadelphia, and the Sixers would also get to keep Danny Green around.