The Philadelphia 76ers are expected to entertain trade offers for the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, per Sam Vencenie of The Athletic.
Per Vencenie, sources around the league are suggesting Philadelphia’s front office is weighing short-term contention against long-term potential.
With franchise center Joel Embiid and forward Paul George both in their 30s and locked into max-level salaries, there’s a growing sense that adding a young developmental project may not align with the team’s win-now timeline.
If the Sixers do hold onto the pick, it remains unclear whom they would prioritize at No. 3. Ace Bailey is viewed by some evaluators as the third-best talent in the class, offering tantalizing athleticism and upside.
But league insiders note that Bailey hasn’t graded well in the type of advanced statistical models historically favored by head of basketball operations Daryl Morey. Translation: the theory is intriguing — the math, less so.
A more practical option could be VJ Edgecombe, a tough-minded wing whose two-way ability appeals to several front offices. But his fit in Philadelphia could be complicated by a lack of size in the backcourt, where Tyrese Maxey and rookie Jared McCain already occupy space.
“I’ve also gotten a wider sense of appreciation from NBA front offices for Edgecombe than Bailey,” Vecenie wrote.
Then there’s Kon Knueppel, a polished wing who could contribute immediately but lacks the upside traditionally expected of a top-three selection. Tre Johnson offers shooting but brings defensive questions. Khaman Maluach, a raw but gifted big man, could eventually serve as Embiid’s backup — though selecting him at No. 3 might be considered a reach.
The Sixers, as always, will explore every angle. And with Morey calling the shots, don’t expect a conventional decision.
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New process proposal.
Durant.
I’m not a huge fan of either Durant or Embiid at this point.
But I think they can help each other. Embiid has been trying to play like Iverson on the perimeter since about the time they scapegoated Ben Simmons for passing on a layup.
You know who should have been under the basket? Joel Embiid.
Embiid has a nice feel for playing inside out when he does it, he just doesn’t choose to often enough.
It would take a huge load off his legs if we could get the ball out of his hands at the three point line, and make him the legit threat down low. With KD cashing in from outside they could play a whole different way.
Maxey, KD, Embiid. Give it another shot before those older two are finished.