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A Bradley Beal, 4-team mega-trade involving the Philadelphia 76ers

By Simon Smith

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 6: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Capital One Arena on April 6, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 6: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards looks on against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Capital One Arena on April 6, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Breaking down the deal

Here’s how the deal, consisting of 11 players over four teams, ultimately plays out on paper:

Philadelphia 76ers

While the deal is a gamble, the reward is potentially incredible. As a player suited to playing both on and off the ball, Beal would be an exceptional fit alongside Embiid and Simmons. At just 24, Beal fits the age demographic of this dynamic duo to a tee.

Furthermore, the move is proactive, with the ever-present risk of losing Redick to free agency. In addition, the Sixers receive an athletic wing defender in Jonathon Simmons. With the loss of Robert Covington, the Sixers would need to add insurance in case their free agency come up short. Hence the addition of Simmons, who posted career numbers across the board due to his increased role with the Magic.

Of course, the major gamble is giving up on Markelle Fultz just one season into his career. Ultimately, the fact that he and Ben Simmons are each best-suited to having the ball in their hands means it would be in the best interests of player and franchise to explore other avenues.

New starting lineup:

  • G – Ben Simmons
  • G – Bradley Beal
  • F – Jonathon Simmons
  • F – Dario Saric
  • C – Joel Embiid

Washington Wizards

Of the four teams involved, the Wizards have the greatest potential of raising their fortunes immediately. With John Wall running the show, the Wizards add two players best-suited off the ball in Robert Covington and Evan Fournier. Furthermore, the addition of Drummond will significantly improves the Wizards’ performance on the glass, having finished 21st last season overall in rebounding.

While giving up two excellent starters and a first round selection is a significant sacrifice, the pieces brought aboard should ensure a smooth transition as the Wizards look to complete their first 50-win season since 1979.

New starting lineup:

  • G – John Wall
  • G – Evan Fournier
  • F – Kelly Oubre Jr.
  • F – Robert Covington
  • C – Andre Drummond

Detroit Pistons

With the departure of Drummond, and to a lesser extent, second-year guard Luke Kennard, this officially signals a rebuild for the Pistons. With new head coach Dwane Casey armed with a five-year contract, he will be officially able to start the rebuilding process from ground zero. Granted, the Pistons still have the scary prospect of Blake Griffin’s remaining $141.7 million on his contract.

However, the additions of the No. 6 and No. 15 overall picks in this years draft gives the Pistons a terrific leg-up in building their next genuine contender, even if they have to take on Bismack Biyombo‘s contract in the interim.

New starting lineup:

Orlando Magic

While giving up the No. 6 overall pick is a huge risk, the young talent the Magic are bringing on board should generate enormous excitement. Firstly, Fultz will be handed the role of floor general from Day 1, and a full summer of work will have all Magic faithful eagerly anticipating what he has to offer.

At small forward, Otto Porter Jr. is the prototype of a modern-day 3-and-D player. At 6’9″ and possessing a 7’2″ wingspan, Porter Jr.’s presence on the wings will be a welcome sight for new head coach Steve Clifford. Additionally, Richaun Holmes has shown during his sporadic playing time with the Sixers that he certainly possesses the necessary hustle and athleticism to become a top-line backup in the frontcourt.

New starting lineup:

  • G – Markelle Fultz
  • G – Luke Kennard
  • F – Otto Porter Jr.
  • F – Aaron Gordon
  • C – Nikola Vucevic

Next: 7 potential Kawhi Leonard trades

Realistically, this deal (which works out financially on the ESPN Trade Machine) not only lands the Sixers an elite young talent in Beal, but also makes them increasingly attractive for the sublime free agent crop on the market this summer.