Grade the Trade: 76ers snag MVP candidate in this blockbuster proposal

The 76ers snag an MVP candidate in this blockbuster trade proposal with the Pelicans

In this blockbuster trade proposal, the Philadelphia 76ers acquire All-Star forward Zion Williamson from the New Orleans Pelicans for Harden, an unprotected first-round selection in 2029, the right to swap first-round draft picks in 2026 and 2030, and a 2024 second-rounder via the New York Knicks.

Williamson, despite becoming more synonymous with the injury report than almost anyone in the league after missing a staggering 194 games over the last four years, remains an elite player in the association when healthy. In fact, he managed to carve out MVP-worthy seasons last year when healthy and in the 2020-21 campaign before he went down due to injury.

Still having just turned 23, there’s no doubt that Williamson is still a widely coveted foundational block for any franchise looking to win now and build for the future. Hence, as a franchise that should be eyeing to do the same, the 76ers could find the prospect of landing Zion as a dream scenario as they attempt to move on from the disparaging Harden saga.

Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the nuances of this deal.