Sixers predicted to make blockbuster trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP, part ways with either of Joel Embiid, Paul George in process originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia 76ers just suffered one of their biggest playoff losses in a while. After their fans chanted “We Want Boston” when they won the Play-In Tournament, they got what they wanted: a 32-point loss to the Boston Celtics.
With that in mind, if they lose to Boston, or at worst, get swept, they’ll need to shake things up. Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale believes so as well, and predicts the Sixers could trade for two-time Finals MVP and all-around superstar Kawhi Leonard. This would mean losing either Paul George or Joel Embiid in the trade as well.
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“Snaring such a high-level prospect could compel the front office to end the Kawhi era. The decision gets easier if the market is frothy enough. And it might be. Leonard is an All-NBA lock after making at least 65 appearances for the second time in three years. His stock isn't getting any higher…If the Philadelphia 76ers put the Clippers' own 2028 and/or 2029 (swap) picks on the table, would L.A. consider taking back Joel Embiid? Or Paul George?” Favale wrote.
This past season, Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals in 32 minutes per game. Add him to a core of Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and either Embiid or George, and the Sixers could have life as a contender once again.
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The Sixers would have to find a way to handle his $50 million per year contract, though. They’d also have to be ok with the fact he might be a one-year rental.
Though, if they can somehow win a championship next year, it would all be worth it. So, if the early exit comes, this is a trade they really need to consider.
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