Replacing Harden with VanVleet and 4 other wild moves 76ers should try this summer

Philadelphia 76ers, James Harden. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Philadelphia 76ers, James Harden. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
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Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers, Bradley Beal (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)

2. Trade Tobias Harris for Bradley Beal

Bill Simmons was all over this in a recent podcast as he discussed Beal potentially wanting out of Washington as they head into a rebuild under a new front office. The three-time All-Star has a full no-trade clause, so he gets to decide his next destination. The 76ers may be eager if James Harden has committed to playing elsewhere this summer.

This is not an easy deal to make. Yes, Tobias Harris sets them within $7 million, but the Sixers have to make it worth the Wizards’ while. Trading Beal’s three seasons plus a player option for an expiring contract creates some interest, but Washington is not dumping the three-time All-Star for salary relief. They need to add pieces that help jumpstart their rebuild.

The 76ers have just one first-round pick and a handful of second-rounders that they can put together. It is a light package, but one that both sides may be forced to explore if James Harden returns to Houston and Bradley Beal is determined to end up in Philadelphia playing next to Joel Embiid.

Daryl Morey will certainly look at trading for Bradley Beal to be the reigning MVP’s running mate, but he would prefer to add more of a true playmaker. One that is quite familiar with the Philadelphia 76ers’ new head coach will be available this summer.