76ers Trade Rumors: Prominent Prospects Off the Radar?

The NBA knows that Philadelphia 76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey is not afraid to take a big swing in the trade market. With that being said, it’s clear the Sixers aren’t going to go star-hunting for the sake of doing so.

Morey made it clear during the now-resolved James Harden saga that landing a star-caliber player was the ideal return. His move went in a different direction, as the Sixers netted several role players and draft compensation in return for the ten-time All-Star guard.

The President’s Plan B could be executed, as the compensation from the Los Angeles Clippers could be flipped for a solo prominent prospect from another squad. However, it seems the Sixers are avoiding the market for some of the biggest names on the NBA’s trade block.

An NBA Insider’s Latest

NBA Insider Marc Stein recently addressed the Sixers’ stance in the market for Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam and Chicago Bulls sharpshooter Zach LaVine.

Similar to past reports, the Sixers don’t seem sold on the idea of making a deal for either of their Eastern Conference rivals. 

“Philadelphia is routinely tossed out there as a likely trade bidder for Chicago’s Zach LaVine or Toronto’s Pascal Siakam, but a source with knowledge of the team’s thinking told me again this week that the Sixers should not be expected to pursue either player between now and Feb. 8.”

The market for LaVine has dried up at this point in the season. Not only was the high-flying star struggling to hit his stride through the first stretch of the season, but an injury sidelined LaVine for over a month. 

LaVine is undoubtedly talented, but his contract has certainly been a factor that’s affected the state of his market. Acquiring LaVine would mean having his contract on the books until 2027. Beginning next season, he’ll make over $43 million in salary.

With the Sixers expected to prioritize having as much cap space as possible to make critical moves next summer, a trade for LaVine would take them down a much different path.

As for Siakam, he could be a solid on-court fit with the Sixers, playing alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. And with him being on a contract season and having familiarity with Nick Nurse, Siakam might be the star who makes the most sense out of the two. 

Yet, it seems the Sixers aren’t jumping at the opportunity to reunite the former Raptors in Philadelphia. While the plan could always change, depending on price and what happens between now and next month when the deadline kicks in, it seems the Sixers are willing to hold firm with their current roster and won’t take a swing to just to take one.