The Philadelphia 76ers do not really have a lot of options when it comes to hatching realistic trades at this juncture. Nearly all teams already have a set roster for next season, and the team does not exactly have the kind of payroll that would allow them to breeze through deals and have an ample latitude of flexibility in the trade market.
Still, there are ways for Daryl Morey and his crew to try their chances on trade possibilities that have become obscure to most people. We are referring to those players who are not expensive to get and who may be able to thrive with the team given its unique dynamics.
In need of an actual example? Look no further than Dario Saric, a former 76ers fan-favorite who is currently languishing on the Western Conference. After a very forgettable stint with the Denver Nuggets last season, he was traded to the Sacramento Kings for Jonas Valanciunas in a cap-clearing move.
At this rate, the Croatian’s career in the NBA could be coming to a close. However, the 76ers actually have the means to welcome him back in a way that would thrill fans as well.
The 76ers could trade Andre Drummond for Dario Saric
Saric will be making $5.4 million next season, which is almost identical to the $5 million salary that Andre Drummond currently makes. Hence, a swap between both players will be very easy to pull off.
Drummond, who has become expendable thanks to Adem Bona and Johni Broome, would be a good fit in Sacramento. The Kings need a tenured big man to spell Domantas Sabonis off the bench, and with Valanciunas now in Mile High City, Drummond will be a perfect replacement for the Lithuanian.
Meanwhile, Saric makes sense as a bench piece for the 76ers. Aside from sentimental motivations, Philadelphia would definitely be well-served having a playmaking big man who can stroke it from the outside. He can operate as a frontcourt partner for both Bona and Broome, and he also has experience playing with Joel Embiid.
The Kings should be very amenable to parting with Saric, who showed serious signs of decline last season. While that is something the 76ers should take into account, there is also a good shot that he ends up being a better fit in Philly.
Thus, the Philadelphia 76ers front office should seriously consider making this swap which, at this point in time, appears to be a harmless trade that will benefit both teams.