3 trades 76ers must make after disappointing 2023-24 NBA season

The season started strong, with the Sixers boasting a 29-13 record and sitting just half a game behind the second seed in the Eastern Conference. However, their fortunes took a dramatic turn when Joel Embiid suffered a torn lateral meniscus in January. During Embiid’s absence, the team struggled, posting an 11-22 record and sliding down to the eighth seed. Embiid’s return on April 2 sparked some hope, marked by a 109-105 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite a valiant effort to finish the regular season with eight consecutive wins, the 76ers could only secure the seventh seed and had to clinch their playoff spot through a win over the Miami Heat in the play-in tournament. Unfortunately, their playoff journey was cut short by the New York Knicks, who eliminated them 4-2 in the first round. This marked the first time since the 2020 playoffs that the Sixers failed to advance beyond the opening round.

Here we will look at the three trades that the Philadelphia 76ers must make after their disappointing 2023-24 NBA season.

Trading for Bogdan Bogdanović

Pinning down trade targets for the Philadelphia 76ers is challenging without a clear picture of their cap situation. Depending on their playoff performance and decisions regarding their free agents, they could have around $65 million in spending power. This makes targeting players like Bogdan Bogdanović a strategic move.

Bogdanović’s scoring, playmaking, and off-the-dribble prowess address several of the Sixers’ existing weaknesses. He also complements potential star additions over the summer. His $17.3 million salary for next season leaves room for the Sixers to pursue other high-profile trades or signings. Philadelphia has the flexibility to offer up to five first-round picks. This should place them in a strong position to negotiate with teams seeking cap relief and draft assets.

Sure, the Sixers may not have a glittery young prospect to offer. However, their ability to provide significant cap relief and multiple draft picks could make them a serious contender in the trade market. Acquiring Bogdanović would be a strategic first step in reshaping their roster for greater playoff success.

Adding Mikal Bridges

In the 2018 draft, the Sixers missed an opportunity by trading away Philadelphia native Mikal Bridges shortly after selecting him with the 10th overall pick. Now is the time to correct that mistake. Yes, there are no indications that the Brooklyn Nets want to move Bridges. However, the Sixers should test the waters with an aggressive trade offer.

Bridges is the disruptive two-way wing the Sixers have been missing since Jimmy Butler’s departure in 2019. At nearly 28 years old, Bridges is in the prime of his career and could significantly elevate the Sixers’ defense. He could also become a reliable scoring option. Although he has struggled as a primary option in Brooklyn, playing alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey would allow him to thrive. Bridges could focus on his defensive strengths and pick his spots on offense. This would make him an ideal fit for the Sixers.

Securing Bridges would require a substantial trade package, likely involving young talents like Jaden Springer and multiple draft picks. However, his addition would immediately improve the team’s defensive capabilities and offensive flexibility.

Acquiring Paul George

Sure, the Sixers have the cap space to sign Paul George outright. That said, his potential impact makes him a must-include in their offseason plans. The nine-time All-Star is reportedly Philadelphia’s top target this offseason.

George offers everything the Sixers need to complete their Big Three. He is a lockdown defender, capable of carrying an offense, and an excellent off-ball shooter. His experience playing alongside other stars, such as Kawhi Leonard and James Harden makes him an ideal fit for the Sixers’ lineup.

The main hurdle is George’s availability. He has a $48.8 million player option with the Los Angeles Clippers for next season. Sure, he might decline it to secure a new contract. That said, there is a strong chance he would prefer to stay in LA. However, the Sixers should explore all possibilities, including a sign-and-trade, to bring George to Philadelphia.

Adding George would be a game-changer for the Sixers. His defensive prowess and scoring ability would provide the team with the star power needed to compete with the league’s elite. The Sixers should be relentless in their pursuit of George, ensuring they make every effort to secure his talents.

Looking Ahead

The Philadelphia 76ers must take decisive action to address the shortcomings revealed during their disappointing 2023-24 season. By targeting Bogdan Bogdanović, Mikal Bridges, and Paul George, they can create a more balanced and competitive roster. These trades would not only enhance their immediate prospects but also position them for sustained success in the highly competitive NBA landscape. The time for bold moves is now, and the Sixers must seize this opportunity to transform their playoff frustrations into future triumphs.