The Philadelphia 76ers have some work to do this summer. In what has been an underwhelming season, the Sixers will have time to regroup and assess their roster. Philadelphia went from a potential contender to a lottery team in a short time, and getting back on track could require drastic measures. If they want to make some changes, it could start with the draft.
The Sixers will likely have a top pick, and if it lands in the top six, they retain it. If it falls outside of that range, the pick goes to the Oklahoma City Thunder. With this pick, Philadelphia could bring in a young talent like Dylan Harper or Jeremiah Fears. On the other hand, if the Sixers really feel daring, they could trade that pick for an established player. FanSided’s Matt John considered this in a deal, as he proposed a deal where the Sixers receive Lauri Markkanen.
Markkanen has been the subject of trade rumors in the past, and this offseason could be Utah’s chance to actually move him. The Jazz are a rebuilding team, and their All-Star forward continues to play at a high level. He has played well for Utah since joining them through the Donovan Mitchell trade, and this season, he is averaging 19 points and 5.9 rebounds.
Markkanen will be a highly sought-after trade target, and chances are, the Sixers could get involved. If Philadelphia does try to make a move, it could require giving up an All-Star forward in Paul George. The proposed deal would also send the Sixers’ pick, but only if it becomes the No. 5 or No. 6. If the Sixers receive a top four pick, it could be hard to pass up on certain talents. In that case, they will likely keep the pick regardless of Markkanen’s availability.
When it comes to this deal, factors like George’s health and his contract come into play. He makes more money than Markkanen, which could scare Utah away. At the same time, if the Jazz are looking to rebuild and bring in young talent, this move could potentially give them not one, but two players to build around.
For the Sixers, they get a talented All-Star that is younger than George, and could help them bounce back from this nightmare season. So, it could be worthwhile.
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The Sixers have some decisions to make, and if their pick does fall to the No. 5 or No. 6 range, Markkanen could be worth exploring.
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