Accepting James Harden’s Slim Future, 76ers Might Welcome $3.2 Million 2x NBA All-Star

With the NBA trade deadline right around the corner, teams around the league are making calls to improve their roster. The Philadelphia 76ers are also one of those teams expected to make some moves, given their storied history in the trade market. Likewise, two seasons ago, the 76ers gave up a ton of assets and players to acquire James Harden from the Brooklyn Nets. However, this time around, NBA insiders believe their next big move could cost them ‘next to nothing’.

Per insider sources, the 76ers are looking to add a backup center for Joel Embiid. Reportedly, they already have eyes on a 2x All-Star. Moreover, it would supposedly cost them pennies on the dollar to make a move leaving room for other trades. This trade deadline’s expected heightened activity of the 76ers comes on the back of James Harden’s declining potential and his lacklustre record of performing in the playoffs.

The 76ers may sign 2x All-Star Andre Drummond for ‘next-to-nothing’

The Philadelphia 76ers have been firing on all cylinders lately. Currently, they are ranked as the 3rd seed in the Eastern Conference with an impressive record of 28-16. 5x All-Star Joel Embiid has been leading the charge with the second-highest scoring average in the league of 33.6.

However, when one looks closely at the team’s depth, especially at the center position, there aren’t many reliable big men. Thus to fill the shoes of Embiid as a backup, NBA insiders believe, the 76ers can make a move for the 2x All-Star Andre Drummond. Incidentally, Drummond had a memorable stint with the 76ers in the past before he got sent to Brooklyn in a package deal for James Harden.

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However, with his recent position at the Chicago Bulls, reports suggest that the 76ers can add the 4x Rebound champion for ‘next-to-nothing.’ Drummond is making $3.2 million this year. Moreover, the team may require all the help possible to live up to its expectations, as some believe there is a dark cloud over their championship aspirations.

James Harden in the 2022-23 season

Many have the 76ers winning big this post-season. But a reputable source believes the 76ers may not show the same dominance in the post-season, and the tragic decline of James Harden may be the main reason behind it.

In a recent Ringer published story, Zach Krem harped on how James Harden may not live up to the role of a co-star with Joel Embiid and contribute to winning basketball. Throughout the piece, Krem mulls over the differences between peak Houston Rockets Harden and his current iteration. Moreover, he also pointed out the multiple playoff failures of the Beard in the past.

Consequently, he believes the 76ers may not fare well against teams like the Brooklyn Nets and the Milwaukee Bucks due to this reason. Though many fans may take grave offense to those comments, there is some truth to Krem’s assessments. The former MVP is currently averaging 21.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 11.1 assists, a far cry from his Houston 30/7/6 splits.

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But only time will tell whether the 76ers will prevail. What do you think about their chances in the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below.