Utah Jazz Receive: G De’Aaron Fox, C Richaun Holmes, 2023 First-Round Pick (SAC)
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Donovan Mitchell, F Bojan Bogdanovic
Sacramento Kings Receive: G James Harden
We know we said the Philadelphia 76ers would likely aim to increase their frontcourt depth in trading James Harden. By acquiring Bogdanovic, they do. Still, the centerpiece of this deal for them is obviously Donovan Mitchell.
Not that Bogdanovic is a mere throw-in. As one of the league’s elite floor-spacing 4s, he too allows them to seek a separate deal for Harris (and sweeteners) without worrying about replacing him. Meanwhile, they add another star to share their backcourt with Maxey. Harden fans won’t like to admit this, but this trade probably makes Philly better in 2022-23.
It’s hard to say whether it’ll do the same for the Kings. Harden has officially entered a portion of his career where we don’t know if his declining play is due to age or injuries. They’d be gambling on his ability to get his body right here. If it pays off, it should do so in a big way.
Meanwhile, the Jazz don’t even come to the bargaining table unless they’re forced to. Murmurs of Donovan Mitchell’s discontent in Salt Lake City grow louder by the moment. If he demands a trade, De’Aaron Fox and an unprotected first-round pick feel like a fair return for his services.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: 3 Players For Philadelphia 76ers To Target With James Harden Trade
For those in the back: we know these scenarios are unlikely. Nonetheless, if you go about your life assuming you can predict NBA outcomes, you’re living a lie. In this league, nothing is impossible.
