76ers trade for their James Harden replacement in this risk-free proposal

76ers, James Harden, Tyrese Maxey - Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
76ers, James Harden, Tyrese Maxey - Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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76ers
Malcolm Brogdon, 76ers (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Are there any downsides to the 76ers trading for Brogdon?

Put simply, there are minimal downsides to the 76ers trading for Malcolm Brogdon. Sure, giving up three players who can serve functional roles and a first-round pick seems dicey, but with the front office having replenished their draft stock in the Harden trade, the team could still trade for the veteran while retaining the assets needed to eventually chase a big name.

As mentioned, Philadelphia has to plug all of its exploitable holes. So far, their Achilles’ heel has been their second unit, which has only served a minimal, minute-spelling role for Nick Nurse. Come playoff time, that could end up backfiring on the team due to the heavy minutes the starters are playing.

Brogdon also serves as a great injury insurance. Maxey has missed a chunk of time previously, and Melton and Patrick Beverley serve niche roles that could be tricky to replicate with how the roster is currently constructed. Brogdon, in this sense, is someone who can rise to the plate and still thrive even with a bigger role than usual.

Ultimately, this trade proposal bears loads of sense for a Philadelphia 76ers team hellbent on pursuing perfection this season. The team has started off on a very positive note so far, but with how long the regular season is, having someone like Malcolm Brogdon will raise their floor tremendously.