Sixers: 5 paths to backcourt upgrade at trade deadline

Sixers trade scenario: A long-term investment in Lonzo Ball

Lonzo Ball has been the center of controversy and spectacle since his high school days. Too often with the 23-year-old point guard, the noise drowns out the facts. People harp on nonexistent flaws and criticize him for a father he cannot control. At the end of the day, Ball is one of the most appealing names linked to the Sixers. I would argue, the most appealing name outside Kyle Lowry.

The Sixers would need to give up considerable assets to get Ball, who the Pelicans are likely content to keep on the roster. While Lonzo’s impending contract extension could force some teams (New Orleans included) to balk, the Sixers are devoid of cap space for the next few seasons and are locked firmly in win-now mode. Giving Ball some extra money in restricted free agency is a better alternative to not having him at all.

SIXERS RECEIVE: Lonzo Ball, Nicolo Melli

PELICANS RECEIVE: Matisse Thybulle, Mike Scott, Vincent Poirier, Sixers 2021 first-round pick, Sixers 2023 second-round pick, Sixers 2025 second-round pick

Ball is one of the smartest decision-makers in basketball, not to mention a spectacular defender who would provide the Sixers with even more versatility at 6-foot-6. Smaller lineups built around Ball and Simmons would thrive in transition, while Ball’s elite 3-point shooting (38.5 percent on 7.8 attempts per game) would help space the floor around Embiid.

While Ball does not give the Sixers much juice as a shot creator in the halfcourt, his age, restricted free agency rights, and the benefits of another 3-and-D guard, should help Daryl Morey sleep at night. He would provide a significant boost to the starting five, while also giving the Sixers — at long last — a half-decent entrance passer to feed Embiid.