In all likelihood, the Philadelphia 76ers are probably not expecting any kind of blockbuster trade involving them at this very juncture, especially with the 2026 NBA Draft already upon them. The rumor mill is full of surprises though, and one sudden emergence might actually constitute itself as an escape route for the franchise to finally move away from Paul George and his albatross contract. For that, they have their nemesis to thank for.
As a wild fallout of the Giannis Antetokounmpo blockbuster trade, the Celtics are currently dealing with a broken connection with Jaylen Brown, whom Boston anchored their trade offer on before they missed out on the superstar. Heck, as reported by ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Boston is now listening to trade offers for the 2024 Finals MVP to such extent that they are willing to dangle him away as long as there is a first-round pick attached.
For the 76ers –– as it is for every other team as well –– that only raises the itch to get on the transaction table with the Celtics. After all, Brown is just coming off an MVP-caliber season and he is still at the peak of his powers. More importantly, if the report holds water, it would create a hell of an opportunity for the team to get rid of an unwanted contract such as George's.
The 76ers could trade for Jaylen Brown to move on from Paul George
George still has another surefire year left on his contract, although he has a player option he can exercise for the 2027-28 season. That is not a debilitating duration anymore, but the 76ers are greatly hampered by his deal due to the overblown price tag.
There is still a lot of value associated with the nine-time All-Star at this point in his career. Last season, he came out stronger and more aggressive after his sudden league-imposed suspension. He was great in the playoffs for the most part despite his declined usage, showcasing his signature three-and-D ability.
Nonetheless, the 76ers are likely predisposed toward finding a way to escape from his contract. At face value, George is no longer at that level where his production warrants a max contract. Conversely, Brown is one of the few players who deserve a colossal price tag, especially given the way he hard-carried the Celtics without Jayson Tatum.
There is not an ample window for this trade saga to fully materialize, but if Boston's relationship with Brown is indeed fractured, the 76ers should swoop in and present themselves as a possible escape route for the Celtics and vice-versa.
Add us as a preferred source on Google