The rumor mill in the offseason can often be a cycle of nonsense. Yet, when it comes to Bill Simmons, his information is usually not far off, and he believes that a trade for Trey Murphy III is imminent, as he discussed on The Bill Simmons Podcast.
While the Philadelphia 76ers are not the leading contender for his signature, the franchise cannot pass up the opportunity to finally seal a move for a top-level 3-and-D forward.
Bill Simmons believes Trey Murphy III trade is on the horizon
Speaking on the podcast, The Ringer's CEO stated, "We assume he's probably going to get traded over the next three weeks. I think Boston [Celtics] is a possibility."
Trading for a player of Murphy's caliber would be a game-changer for the 76ers in several departments. First and foremost, the 25-year-old would immediately strengthen Philadelphia's frontcourt while forming a formidable defensive partnership alongside Paul George. With this addition, the 76ers could boast one of the NBA's most effective perimeter defensive duos, giving them the versatility and talent needed to limit their opponent's production.
Additionally, with the Boston Celtics tipped to add Trey Murphy to their already impressive squad, Philadelphia's new general manager, Mike Gansey, has a prime opportunity to seal an early victory over their Eastern Conference Rivals.
Trey Murphy is the exact player that the 76ers need
It may be a generalized statement that rings true across many NBA franchises, but Philadelphia is desperate for a highly effective 3-and-D wing. Paul George has proven during his sporadic appearances in the regular season and during the 76ers' playoff campaign that age is just a number. However, depth is critical to a championship tilt, something the Sixers did not have during the Daryl Morey era.
Much like Tyrese Maxey, Trey Murphy has showcased year-on-year development on both sides of the ball. In the absence of the New Orleans Pelicans' star players, most notably Zion Williamson, Murphy has thrived.
Throughout the 2025-26 season, the 6-foot-8 forward averaged a career-high 21.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. In addition to those impressive numbers, Murphy knocked down 37.9 percent of his shots from deep, a mark surpassed by only Paul George among current 76ers players.
As long as Joel Embiid remains on the payroll, the 76ers have an obligation to chase a championship. To do that, the front office must be willing to pursue elite talent whenever the opportunity presents itself. While Bill Simmons has highlighted the Boston Celtics as a likely landing spot for Trey Murphy III, the Sixers must attempt to land his signature.
