Philadelphia 76ers: 3 potential blockbuster trades following free agency

2.  Jabari Parker, Milwaukee Bucks

Considering the Sixers’ recent injury history, it would take a brave front office to attempt such a move. But if successful, the return on the investment could set the Sixers up for the next decade.

The No. 2 overall selection in the 2014 NBA Draft, Parker recently completely his third season in an untimely fashion. Unfortunately for Parker and the Bucks, the 6’8″ forward tore his left ACL for the second time in his brief NBA career.

He initially tore it 25 games into his rookie season. And following a season of restoration, Parker played in 51 games this past season before suffering the same fate again. But prior to this devastating setback, Parker demonstrated his immense talents.

Philadelphia 76ers

Last season, Parker posted 20.1 points and 6.2 rebounds in 33.9 minutes per game. Forming an amazing forward tandem with rising superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks and Parker were understandably excited for the future.

But this latest setback will naturally cause some doubt to enter the minds of the decision-makers within the Bucks’ organization. And as a result, it could very well represent a chance for an opposing team to take a risk and punt on Parker’s future health.

While Parker’s number’s rose across the board last season, his most notable improvement was with his three-point shooting. Over his first two seasons comprising 101 games, Parker attempted a total of 51 three-pointers, converting at just a 25.5 percent clip.

But this past season, Parker’s three-point numbers took off, illustrating his true value as a modern-day stretch-4. Over 51 games, Parker attempted 178 three-pointers, hitting at a commendable 36.5 percent clip. This included hitting four or more three-pointers on five occasions, including a career-best five three-pointers in a win against the Orlando Magic.

A potential deal would provide a great deal of risk on the Sixers’ end. Not only are they sacrificing two promising young players, they are gambling on the health of a player completely new to their system.

Like the Aldridge deal, the Sixers would be sacrificing both Saric and Okafor to make room for Parker. With the Bucks’ own center, Greg Monroe, coming out of contract following the 2017-18 season, Okafor could be brought along for this season and beyond, assuming the Bucks took up his $6.3 million option for the 2018-19 season.

But the prize is obviously Parker, still just 22 and one of the more gifted offensive players in the league. With his expanded repertoire now including the three-point shot, Parker certainly fits one of the Sixers’ stated offseason goals, perimeter shooting.

And while Parker represents an intriguing piece, this would take an extreme amount of courage on the part of Colangelo and his front office.