One NBA scout doesn’t think the Philadelphia 76ers should acquire Toronto Raptors point guard Fred VanVleet.
The anonymous scout told NBA Analysis Network that VanVleet would be an “awful” fit in Philadelphia.
“That’d be an awful fit,” the scout said. “First of all, two small guards next to each other with VanVleet and Maxey, I don’t like that. Another big issue is that VanVleet is a poor finisher. We all saw how limiting it was for Philly in the playoffs when Harden struggled at the rim. I don’t see [VanVleet] being a fix or even much of a fit. That seems like a desperate pivot to me.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The Sixers hired VanVleet’s old coach, Nick Nurse, to replace Doc Rivers. FVV can become an unrestricted free agent this summer if he declines his player option for next season. The Wichita State product averaged 19.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists this season while shooting 39.3% from the field, 34.2% from beyond the arc and 89.8% from the free-throw line.
The Raptors lost to the Chicago Bulls in the 9-10 play-in game and didn’t qualify for the playoffs. After Toronto’s season ended following its loss to Chicago, VanVleet told reporters that he wouldn’t rush into a decision about his future.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors & Philadelphia 76ers Updates
“I know we’re very dramatic around here,” VanVleet said. “It’s a tough way to go out. Not too much rush to jump into a decision about opting out. It will take some time.”
The Sixers, who lost to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals in seven games, are eyeing VanVleet as a potential replacement for former MVP James Harden, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints. Harden, who can become an unrestricted free agent this summer if he declines his 2023-24 player option, is expected to leave Philly for the Houston Rockets, according to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.
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