The 76ers should steal this rumored trade candidate from crucial rival

The Philadelphia 76ers are off to a great start this preseason. While some of their main gunners have yet to show up in the hardwood, a lot of players have already turned heads in their short, respective introductions to the fans to kickstart the current campaign.

At this point in time, it does not make much sense for the front office to actively tap the transaction buzzer. They still need time to properly assess the roster and the team's actual needs.

Having said that, with Daryl Morey at the helm of the most aggressive win-now franchise in the NBA, settling with the current deck is not a controlling option. You can bank on the longtime executive to get his hands itchy sooner than later, especially when he and front office already gets a sufficient look at the roster.

The next big trade target may have just presented himself to the 76ers

Rumors point to Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart being pursued in a trade. The New York Knicks are reportedly eyeing the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, hoping to bolster their backcourt after trading Donte DiVincenzo away.

Should the rumor of the defensive-minded guard being available hold water, the 76ers should try to get in on the action and line up for his services. While it would be highly unusual to see such a longtime adversary suit up for the team, he is a near-perfect fit to the team given his skill set.

Next to Tyrese Maxey, he can help lighten his load defensively while also serving as a secondary playmaker. His relatively meager shooting splits are also offset by the fact that he's not a shy trigger man and more than makes up for it with his hustle and intangibles.

There are some health concerns with Smart, but beyond that, he's a constant pest on both ends. He also offers ample playoff experience which will bode really well for the title-hungry 76ers.

It would take the 76ers two players under considerable deals to make a direct swap for Smart, which could be a steep price to pay. Nevertheless, the veteran would be a massive addition to the team and could further heighten their ceiling as a perennial powerhouse.