2. Sixers convince Cavaliers to trade Donovan Mitchell
Spider is the biggest name in trade rumors right now. The four-time All-Star is one of the league's best scorers and has led his team to the playoffs in each of his first six seasons. The 27-year-old has already put up some monster postseason lines, but he too is still searching for that first conference finals appearance.
Mitchell can become a free agent in 2025, but the Cavaliers cannot let him get there. They will extend or trade him. If the four-time All-Star asks out, the deal could come before the Feb. 8 deadline. Cleveland must maximize the value for their star as they try to recoup what they paid.
The Jazz got Lauri Markkanen, Collin Sexton, Ochai Agbaji, three first-round draft picks, and two swaps for Mitchell. Philadelphia’s package falls short of that, but it is virtually all Daryl Morey is willing to offer. The Sixers may throw in a couple of swaps, but they do not have the young talent.
There would be concerns about their backcourt. Donovan Mitchell and Tyrese Maxey are both undersized guards with defensive questions. Having Joel Embiid to protect the rim helps, but the Sixers would need a 3-and-D wing to round out their roster.
The Philadelphia 76ers should explore a Donovan Mitchell trade, but it may be impossible. Nobody knows what will happen before the Feb. 8 trade deadline. There are shocking trades every year, and this one could include an unthinkable deal for one of the all-time greats.