The Philadelphia 76ers need to make a trade before the deadline. They are still one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference, but the Sixers cannot waste Joel Embiid’s historic season. Philly is trying to keep their cap space open this summer, but making a deep playoff run this year should be more important.
Embiid and Jaden Springer are the Sixers' only guaranteed contracts on the books for next season. They will bring back Tyrese Maxey in restricted free agency, but Daryl Morey can remake their roster first. The free agent market is already drying up, and Morey may be better off attacking his needs before the deadline.
If the 76ers make a trade, they will have to send out matching salary. These six players are most likely to be dealt before Feb. 8.
6. Paul Reed
Reed signed an offer sheet with the Jazz last summer, but the Sixers matched in restricted free agency. They had zero plans of letting the 24-year-old walk without getting a return, but the 6’9 big man could become a key piece for Philadelphia at the trade deadline.
His numbers do not leap off the screen, but Reed is backing up Joel Embiid. There are not a ton of minutes to come by, but his 30 points and 13 rebounds in Denver on Jan. 27 showcased his potential. Can Reed take his game to another level in an expanded role? There are several rebuilding teams interested in finding out.
Paul Reed is under contract for two more years after this season, but both are non-guaranteed. The 24-year-old is the perfect young talent to take a shot on. If he blossoms, the 6’9 big man is on a value contract, but the team can cut bait if things are not working out. That only increases his trade value, but the Philadelphia 76ers are unlikely to move him unless they are getting a crucial piece in return.