The Philadelphia 76ers are currently in first place in the Eastern Conference, if just barely. Through games played on March 17th, they are 28-13, tied with the Brooklyn Nets and just 1.5 games ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks. The Nets have won 14 of their last 15, and the Bucks 10 of their last 11. The 76ers’ margin for error is minuscule.
Add to that the fact that MVP candidate Joel Embiid is sidelined for at least another week and likely more, the 76ers are in need to some reinforcements to ensure they don’t lose their grip on home-court advantage.
Even more so, this is a team with its sights set on a title. To make the NBA Finals they will need to beat strong teams such as the Brooklyn Nets or Milwaukee Bucks; to win once arriving they will need to take down a Western Conference titan, likely loaded with All-Stars.
Should the Philadelphia 76ers pass or pursue on these five NBA trade deadline rumors?
The 76ers have their top two stars figured out, with Embiid and Ben Simmons both having career years. Seth Curry has been the perfect addition as an absolute sniper from the guard position. Tobias Harris is thriving with increased spacing. Yet outside of that core four, there is a need for improvement.
Danny Green has lost a step, and young players such as Matisse Thybulle and Tyrese Maxey need seasoning. Shake Milton is not a good defensive fit with Curry in the closing five. This team needs some bench help, and it could come anywhere other than the 5.
Let’s look at a couple of options in both the backcourt and frontcourt, before ending with the All-Star champion point guard everyone in Philly is talking about trading for.