The Sixers have already made one blockbuster trade and another one could be coming, according to Alex Kennedy of HoopsHype.
76ers added Marco Belinelli and Ersan Ilyasova through buyout market last year. Expect them to aggressively pursue bought-out players again to improve depth.Another possibility: I spoke to an agent who predicted that Philly will deal Markelle Fultz for a vet who helps them now.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 6, 2019
Fultz's struggles with the Sixers have been well documented, as the former No. 1 overall pick has played in just 19 games this season. He has played in 33 games overall since being drafted, averaging 7.7 points and shooting just 26% from the three-point line. With a cap hit of $8.3 million this season and $9.7 next season, dealing Fultz is going to be crucial if the Sixers plan on signing both Jimmy Butler and newly-acquired Tobias Harris this offseason.
Related: 10 players the Sixers could trade Markelle Fultz for
The Sixers' need for another vet is also pressing after their huge trade with the Clippers. The Sixers' bench was already thin prior to the deal, but now it is even thinner. With the team clearly going all-in on this season, moving Fultz—who might not even play again this year (or ever?)—for a veteran piece that can help them now would be a huge boost to their chances in the playoffs.
Brett almost went full Jim Mora on the reporter for asking about Fultz in the playoffs. --
A post shared by 94WIP (@sportsradio94wip) on Feb 6, 2019 at 6:59am PST
Related: 10 knee-jerk thoughts: Sixers trade for Tobias Harris
Harris, 6-foot-9, should fill in perfectly as the stretch four the Sixers have been looking for. Harris is having his one of his best seasons of his career, averaging 20.7 points while shooting 49% from the field and 43.4% from the 3-point line.
You can reach Eliot Shorr-Parks on Twitter at @EliotShorrParks or email him at esp@94wip.com!
