There has been plenty of attention given to the Philadelphia 76ers as they could turn the NBA upside down depending on what they decide to do with three-time Ben Simmons. If he is traded, the team acquiring him could turn into contenders quickly depending on how close they already are in the playoff race. The 76ers could be considered contenders already but would improve their chances depending on the return package.
Philadelphia’s chances would also increase should they not trade Simmons and convince him to return to the court for them. That seems like a long shot, but you never know what’ll happen as the two sides could have a breakthrough and change of heart.
But, while all of the focus has been on Ben Simmons, the 76ers have been quietly holding discussions with another player on the team; Tobias Harris. There were some rumors that Daryl Morey was hoping to attach Harris’ contract along with Simmons in a package, but that didn’t gain much ground.
The Sacramento Kings sounded like the only team that had any real interest in that but they are likely out of the running now following their acquisition of Domantas Sabonis from the Indiana Pacers.
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According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, the 76ers have had discussions centered around Harris with the Oklahoma City Thunder. If a team is looking to shed some salary, the Thunder are always going to be involved as a possible landing spot as they will take on any contract if draft compensation is included.
“Sources also confirmed that the Sixers have had conversations with the Oklahoma City Thunder about Tobias Harris. A person close to the Sixers downplayed the discussions, saying the Thunder are just one of several teams with available cap space that have inquired about taking in salary in exchange for draft picks. The person says Harris has nothing to be concerned about.”
If Harris has nothing to be concerned about, it is peculiar that the source confirmed trade talks were held. Is there other motivation from the 76ers, possibly to push the Nets into making a deal involving James Harden or the Portland Trail Blazers to finally part ways with Damian Lillard?
READ MORE: OKC Thunder Are Important Team To Watch In NBA Trade Rumors
On the season Harris is averaging 19.1 points to go along with 7.3 rebounds and 3.8 assists. He is making 48.8 percent of his shot attempts overall, 34.6 percent of his 3-pointers and 85.3 percent of his free throws. He is playing out a five-year, $180 million deal that runs through 2024, so he is owed nearly $79.5 million the next two seasons.
It makes sense the Philadelphia 76ers would explore moving on from that, especially with the grand plans of acquiring James Harden this offseason. However, they have to be sure they have something lined up because, without Tobias Harris, their offense would struggle as he is the second option behind Joel Embiid.
