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Philadelphia 76ers: Make a Play or Stay for Trading Block Targets

By Jake Hyman

Nov 25, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Markieff Morris celebrates after a three pointer against the New Orleans Pelicans at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 25, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Markieff Morris celebrates after a three pointer against the New Orleans Pelicans at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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2. PF/C, DeMarcus Cousins

2015-16 Stats (22 games): 25.0 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 42.0%/30.6% (FG/3FG), 22.2 PER

Career (Six Seasons): 19.3 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 2.6 APG, 46.0%/24.0% (FG/3FG), 21.5 PER

Verdict: Stay

DeMarcus Cousins should be difficult to deal for as the Kings’ kingpin of riches. At 25, he’s in prime territory to continue his offensive dominance for multiple seasons. Teams won’t be dealing for any old veteran, they’ll be inquiring about arguably the league’s most offensively gifted center.

Perennial playoff teams have less to offer than Philadelphia or Boston, who is drowning in assets. However, Sacramento is in a precarious situation with many veteran pieces meshing with their youth.

Point guard Rajon Rondo has found a second life, averaging 12.3 points, 11.4 assists and 6.6 rebounds per game and is forcing Sacramento’s hand on whether to give him serious money in 2016. On a one-year contract, Rondo has shredded expectations and gives head coach George Karl a rare answer at the point. Rondo also has developed chemistry with Cousins in a short amount of time.

Currently, general manager Vlade Divac could and should be asking for hefty compensation for Cousins. The Sixers, in year three of the rebuild, could be hesitant to part with multiple first-round picks and high-upside players.

Also, with the uptick in the salary cap, rookie contracts become a cost-controlled salvation for non-competitive organizations. Refrain from dealing, but inquire about Cousins if you’re Sam Hinkie.

Next: Stretch Four Capitan