Grade the Trade: 76ers get new young star in this four-team blockbuster

Why this deal makes little sense for Philadelphia

For all the merits this deal brings to Philly in the long-run, the immediate step back could have more heft than expected. The 76ers are obviously and structurally aiming to win now, and forcing Joel Embiid to brave through another year (or two) of the team brewing its chemistry with new pieces could eventually be a turn-off, especially in light of the franchise’s lack of meaningful success so far.

In addition, Herro is essentially Tyrese Maxey with more weaknesses to his game. For a franchise willing to hand over the keys to the latter, it’s difficult to envision them salivating at the prospect of giving him a running mate who cannot set the table for him and won’t be as conducive to his growth.

Even if the 76ers aim to recoup some assets for the future, they can arguably get much more than just two second-rounders by engaging in more direct deals. In effect, hinging all efforts to net Herro as a means to enrich the timeline beyond the current one may not be as far-sighted as it seems.

Ultimately, a trade such as this should be approached by the Philadelphia 76ers brass with guarded curiosity at most. Even for an expiring contract like Harden, his very stature could easily net them much more, especially in the draft capital department.

Grade: B