NBA Team Needs – Philadelphia 76ers
By Ed Isaacson
Our look at the Team Needs continues with the Philadelphia 76ers –
Returning Players– Elton Brand (PF), Andre Iguodala (SG), Samuel Dalembert (C), Jason Kapono (SF), Louis Williams (PG), Willie Green (SG), Thaddeus Young (SF/PF), Marreese Speights (PF/C), Jrue Holiday (PG), Jason Smith (PF/C), Jodie Meeks (SG)
Team Payroll (11 Players) – $65,820,018
Estimated Salary Cap – $56,000,000
Team Needs– Consistent scoring, Possible replacement for Iguodala if he is traded, Guard depth, Upgrade to Center position
Position Needs – SG, SF, C
Picks – 1st Round (#6)
Analysis– Disappointing is the first word which comes to mind when thinking of the 76ers 2009-10 season (which ultimately led to the firing of Eddie Jordan after one season.) The team is now at a major crossroads as to how to deal with the huge contracts given to Elton Brand and Andre Iguodala combined with a group of young players needing more time on the court to get better, and no cap room to work with. While it will be extremely difficult to unload Brand’s monstrous deal, the Sixers may be able to find a team to take Iguodala and the remaining 4 years on his contract. Obviously, if they were to unload Iguodala, it would be expected that the team would go into full rebuilding mode. If this was to happen, they would need to try and draft a player who can replace Iguodala’s scoring and athleticism. At the No. 6 spot, I have one name which comes to mind – Al-Farouq Aminu. Aminu has great size and athleticism, runs the court very well, can play inside and out, and is a decent defender (though certainly not in Igoudala’s class). If Al-Aminu is taken, they may also consider Wesley Johnson, who can be picked anywhere from 3 to 8 in this draft. Johnson doesn’t have the presence of Al-Aminu, but he is much more athletic. If Iguodala was to come back to Philadelphia, the Sixers may want to target an upgrade to the front line, namely, Cole Aldrich, the top pure center in the draft. Aldrich offers them a tough presence in the middle with the ability to put points on the board against other big bodies. With a young core of Louis Williams, Jrue Holiday and Thaddeus Young, the addition of a big-time center could carry the Sixers into the future looking pretty good.
Make sure to check back tomorrow as we take a look at the New York Knicks. Make sure to leave any questions or comments and I will address them.