Philadelphia 76ers

When the Philadelphia 76ers acquired James Harden, many may have thought their pursuit of star players was complete. They obviously aren’t well-acquainted with general manager Daryl Morey.

The pursuit of star players is never complete for him.

It’s entirely possible that landing Harden was part one of a two-part plan. Forming a big three of Harden, Lillard, and Joel Embiid could make the Sixers the prohibitive championship favorites heading into the 2022-23 season.

They may have the means to make it happen. If Philly deemed it worth their time to part with emerging star Tyrese Maxey, that would be a great starting point for Portland. They’d probably have to absorb Tobias Harris’ contract to make it work. Throw a draft pick or two the Blazers’ way, and that may be a deal the organization can’t refuse.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Bold Trade Ideas Involving Trail Blazers’ Damian Lillard

Damian Lillard may not want to “run from the grind”. There’s an admirability in his principles. Still, if he wishes to pursue an NBA title, landing on either of the Wolves or Sixers would certainly increase his odds.