The Philly side has a crucial task ahead of them, heading into the off-season. With an approximate cap space of $65 million, the City of Brotherly Love could make a massive wave in the NBA world with a trade move. Jimmy Butler and Paul George’s tickets seem to have been punched in the last few days as possible candidates. However, the latest update squashed it all with two other different names. Ky Carlin, a senior reporter at USA Today, floated the name Brandon Ingram from the Pelicans, as an option.
He reposted a tweet that read, “Brandon Ingram is another good possibility for the Sixers. He’s younger than some of the other guys they’ve been linked to and he has been an All-Star in his career. However, you worry about the injuries and his poor playoff performance this past year.” After this update on Ingram, Carlin revealed the Sixers’ next possible face of interest.
“Brandon Ingram is another good possibility for the Sixers. He’s younger than some of the other guys they’ve been linked to and he has been an All-Star in his career. However you worry about the injuries and his poor playoff performance this past year.”
— 97.5 The Fanatic (@975TheFanatic) June 4, 2024
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It was Mikal Bridges. He again reposted his own words,” I believe Mikal Bridges could be a viable option for the Sixers. The Nets aren’t going anywhere and the Sixers can give them assets for a rebuild.” Moreover, he strongly stated Paul George and Jimmy Butler wouldn’t leave their respective sides.
The Sixers had no time ahead of the 2023-24 season to find a replacement for James Harden. The Beard didn’t show up for practice and eventually signed a deal with the LA Clippers. Nevertheless, the 76ers without the star made a decent effort in the season with the help of Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
However, Daryl Morey can’t leave the roster as it is, especially with a cap space of $65 million! With Maxey and Embiid on the side, the latest rumors strongly suggest that the management is looking to further strengthen their front-court.
Will the 76ers rule out Jimmy Butler and Paul George from their options?
In the case of Paul George, the star forward is currently in a player option with the Clippers. Ever since he moved to the LA side alongside Kawhi Leonard, the duo hasn’t really seen any success, struggling with injuries and inconsistency on the floor. Moreover, with Harden by their side, PG-13 will have to make the call to whether to stay or not.
On the other hand, 34-year-old Jimmy Butler has two more years with the Miami Heat and it would be a gamble for the Sixers to trade him at 36. Considering the Sixers’ powerful center and guard positions, the likes of a young frontcourt would definitely make wonders. Brandon Ingram (26), who is in the final year of $158 million, could solve the Tobias Harris problem. He has had consistency troubles.
Moreover, in the case of Mikal Bridges (27), probably the healthiest player in the league, can offer support both on the front court and backcourt. Considering the mid-twenties age bracket, the 76ers may also dream about constructing the foundation for a dynasty. Notably, Joel Embiid opened up on his health in a recent interview and spread positive word about his knee and Bell Palsy troubles.
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The Sixers may even go for the Championship hunt in the next season if they crack the Brandon Ingram and Mikal Bridges trade. What do you make of the proposed trade? Let us know in the comments.
Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow in what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.
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