5 Trades to fill Philadelphia 76ers’ biggest hole
By Tyler Watts
The Philadelphia 76ers are off to a fast start, despite plenty of early-season drama. James Harden is in Los Angeles, Tyrese Maxey is becoming a star, and the Sixers are near the top of the Eastern Conference. Still, there is uncertainty about their roster. They can have cap space in the summer to chase free agents, but Daryl Morey may not want to wait. He may use the assets he got for Harden to improve their roster before the trade deadline.
Morey is known for chasing top-end talent, but the 76ers may not need it. Maxey is well on his way to making his first All-Star appearance and reigning MVP Joel Embiid is still at the top of his game. Philadelphia may maximize their title odds by adding shooting and defense to their talented roster.
Who will be available before the deadline? The Sixers have three first-round picks to trade, and Morey is never afraid to be aggressive. Here are five deals that would improve their title odds.
5. 76ers target 3-and-D wing
Is Philadelphia just one shooter away? They are 18th in 3-pointers made per game, despite being tenth in percentage. New head coach Nick Nurse is not known for bombing from long range, but the Sixers need a bit more floor spacing in the playoffs. Teams will pack the paint to slow down Embiid and curtail Maxey’s quickness at getting to the cup. Being able to kick out to an open shooter is crucial.
The Nets have a logjam on the wing when everyone is healthy and could look to shake things up before the deadline. Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson are the team’s preferred options, which makes Dorian Finney-Smith available. He could provide versatility and space in the City of Brotherly Love.
DFS trade
Doe-Doe twice shot over 39 percent from 3-point range for the Mavericks and can guard multiple positions. The 6’7 forward is not afraid to take on the toughest matchup and would fit perfectly in Philly next to their two stars. Finney-Smith won’t command the ball. He is happy spotting up and knocking down open looks.
The Sixers give up a first-round pick, but this trade allows them to keep their options open. Dorian Finney-Smith would improve their title odds and could be moved in the offseason if Philadelphia has a shot at landing a marquee name.