Reinforcing the backup center position was one of the biggest priorities for the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason. However, the front office was not really able to tick that off their summer bucket list. If anything, the crucial role is now up for grabs among their slew of young, but unproven big men. That being said, if push comes to shove and their need for a more secure center arises, one name they could take a look at as a possible trade target is Houston Rockets big man Clint Capela.
Capela, who will be entering his 13th season in the league, is quietly set up to be a prime trade candidate next season. He is on a modest contract with some more roster control, given that his deal runs until 2028, and the Rockets do not exactly hold him in high regard after both Alperen Sengun and Steven Adams have been ahead of him in the rotation. This is one opening the 76ers could take advantage of before the trade deadline.
76ers could target Clint Capela to bolster the center rotation next season
Adem Bona, Dominick Barlow, Jabari Walker, and Ariel Hukporti will be competing for minutes off the bench in order to be the primary backup to Joel Embiid, but none of those players have ample experience. That is exactly what makes someone like Capela especially appealing as a trade target.
Capela had his least productive campaign this past season, but that is largely because the Rockets only had a minor role available for him. This coming season, that will probably remain unchanged, especially if Adams manages to stay healthier.
One of the better rim deterrents in the league at his peak, Capela can still help a team out on the defensive end. He also remains a prolific rebounder, which is an area of concern the 76ers intended to address this offseason. His intentional shot-blocking would also do wonders for the bench, which currently does not have a firm defensive anchor.
The Rockets will not demand a lot for Capela anyway. In all likelihood, it would only take a second-round pick at most to snag his services. If anything, Houston's front office is probably itching to ship him away anyway.
For just a fraction of the price, the 76ers could get a much more proven commodity at center in Clint Capela. In an ideal world, they will not have to make a more for him, but if their cushion behind Joel Embiid remains feeble, the front office knows which brain trust to contact.
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