The Philadelphia 76ers’ offseason remake got off to a disastrous start, but may finally be turning a corner. They have won four of their last six. There are still massive question marks, including the latest Embiid injury and dealing with the Jared McCain absence. Daryl Morey will look to upgrade their roster before the trade deadline, and Eric Gordon may be headed out.
The veteran signed a two-year deal worth $6.7 million in the offseason. Philadelphia wanted a scorer and floor spacer on their bench. Gordon averaged 11 points per game and shot 37.8 percent from 3-point range last season in Phoenix, but he has not translated that production to the Sixers.
The 35-year-old was in the rotation to begin the season but was benched after 16 disastrous appearances in the first 18 games. He has not played since Nov. 30 and became eligible to be traded on Dec. 15 after signing a fresh contract in the offseason.
The door just swung wide open for the 76ers to move on from Eric Gordon
He averages 4.8 points, 0.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 16.5 minutes per game. Gordon shot 32.5 percent from the field and 23.8 percent on his threes. The 76ers have a negative-8.8 net rating with him on the floor and simply cannot play the veteran unless his production improves significantly.
Philadelphia is over the first tax apron making them unable to take back more money in a trade than they send out. They can aggregate salaries, and Gordon’s $3.3 million could be a key addition to a trade to make the math work. Morey is already working the phones and looking for his next move. There will be zero qualms about moving off Gordon as the veteran is no longer in the rotation.
The 6’3 guard is a proven shot-maker, but it is fair to question how much he has left in the tank. Another contender may be willing to take a flier and even rebuilding teams will not be scared off by his $3.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season. The 76ers should be able to add him to a trade or use his salary to acquire another minimum player they believe in.
The Philadelphia 76ers will be active and aggressive in the trade market. President of basketball operations Daryl Morey always is, and the franchise has holes to fill. Can they find a difference-maker who helps them get back into contention? That is the goal, and do not be surprised to see Eric Gordon sent packing in the deal.