The 76ers are an NBA mixed bag right now. Sure, they’ve won four of their last five, but that ugly start still hangs over them like a dark cloud. Joel Embiid’s murky status doesn’t help matters either.
But don’t expect Daryl Morey to sit on his hands. According to ESPN, the Sixers’ president of basketball operations is gearing up for his usual trade deadline fireworks.
Philadelphia’s summer was busy — headlined by bringing in nine-time All-Star Paul George — but the roster still has glaring holes. They’re sitting near the bottom of the league in 3-point percentage (28th), and their frontcourt depth? Basically nonexistent.
Also, Guerschon Yabusele is the lone power forward, and he’s a minimum-salary signing. That’s not exactly championship material.
Enter KJ Martin. The Sixers inked him to a two-year, $16 million deal, and let’s be honest — it was always meant to be trade bait.
The catch? Martin’s contract can’t be moved until mid-January. That extra month to survey the market might actually work in Philly’s favor. By then, their needs will be clearer — whether it’s adding shooting, size, or both.
And then there’s Kyle Lowry, the veteran point guard with trade veto power. He’s another wrinkle in the Sixers’ trade plans.
But let’s not forget, this is Morey we’re talking about. He’s never met a deal he didn’t at least consider. With a pile of first-round picks and movable contracts like Martin’s, don’t be surprised if Philly makes a splash before February.
For now, it’s a waiting game. But come trade season, the Sixers could be one of the league’s busiest teams.
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