There are numerous reports of the 76ers president of Basketball Operations Darryl Morey expressing his interests in the likes of Eric Gordon and PJ Tucker. Both players would be capable of adding tremendous value to the franchise, although they are 33 and 37 years old respectively, they both can add value which would boost the 76ers chances of obtaining a championship within the next couple of years.
These next three years are crucial for the 76ers franchise, as it is the prime years of their all-star centre Joel Embiid. It is important to capitalise on his health and talent whilst it is in its prime. Already having the likes of James Harden and Tyrese Maxey on his side, it is time for the Sixers to look at their bench depth and prioritise it, as a weak bench contribution was one of the reasons for their early playoff entrance. Eric Gordon can go a long way in helping that area of need.
Is it worth pursuing Eric Gordon this free agency by the Sixers?
Eric Gordon currently has 2 years on his contract, which consists of $19.6 million dollars in the coming season and $20.9 million dollars in the season after. Having played under Morey for the Houston Rockets, the possibility of a trade to the 76ers could be at play.
Having said that, the 76ers would have to look towards trading away Furkan Korkmaz or Danny Green to acquire him. Averaging 13.4 points on 41.2 percent shooting from beyond the arc, he would be an ideal target to come off the bench as the sixth man for the 76ers’ offence.
Being able to play in the shooting guard role and as an undersized small forward helps the 76ers increase their depth leading into next season. However, one major imitability of Eric Gordon is his injury history and lack of games played in the previous three seasons.
This problem can be evaded if his minutes and game played are managed throughout the regular season by the 76ers management. Likewise, Gordon’s ability to shoot effectively from beyond the arc would look to relieve the pressure from Joel Embiid inside the paint and likewise reduce the chances of his defender not moving onto double team Harden as his 3-point shooting could prove to be costly.
Gordon also possesses the ability to get to the rim despite his age, having shot 68.0 percent at the rim on 138 attempts. Other teams such as the Phoenix Suns have also showcased their interests in the 33-year-old veteran.
If the Sixers are able to take in a player like Eric Gordon this offseason, they could be pretty good next season. The Philadelphia 76ers looking to finally increase their bench depth and increase their likelihood of bringing a championship to south philly within the next couple of seasons. I also think the 76ers should look to trade away their 23rd draft pick and adopt a win now mentality in order to maximize the talents surrounding Embiid.