Fake NBA trades are hard to write. Take it from us. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it. Well, maybe not everyone. Some people would probably prefer to keep doing whatever it is that they do.
Recently, an NBA writer proposed a fake trade that landed Zach LaVine on the Philadelphia 76ers. With all due respect, we didn’t think it was the right trade.
After all, it had James Harden landing on the Chicago Bulls. Why would the Bulls trade for Harden? If they’re trading LaVine, shouldn’t they prefer future-focused assets? If we were writing a fake trade to send LaVine to the Sixers, it would look like this:
The Trade Proposal
Chicago Bulls Receive: F/C Marcus Morris Sr., F Robert Covington, G/F Terrance Mann, G/F Furkan Korkmaz, 2028 First-Round Pick (LAC), 2029 First-Round Pick (PHI)
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: G James Harden
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G/F Zach LaVine
Real trades are hard to make. You can’t take that one from us, though. Just look at NBA history. Often, it’s easy enough to identify a deal that makes sense in theory. In practice, there may be obstacles along the way.
Take James Harden. He wants to be traded from the 76ers. This is one of the best guards in the NBA – it should be easy for the Sixers to find a return, right?
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers & Chicago Bulls Updates
Think again. Harden is aging. He’s also made a habit of requesting trades in recent years. The number of suitors for his services may be more limited than one might think. Should the Clippers be on that list?
Why The Los Angeles Clippers Do The Deal
Meanwhile, the Clippers are at a bit of a crossroads themselves. This team was built to contend. So far, they haven’t been able to do so. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George’s combined inability to stay healthy has been a major issue for this team.
Should they blow up their core? Perhaps. On the other hand, the Clippers have invested a lot of assets in this group. Starting from scratch may not be their preferred outcome.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers & Chicago Bulls Updates
If not, why not go for broke? The Clippers need a point guard. Harden is one of the best in the NBA. If they can stay healthy, this team should compete for an NBA title next season. Should the Sixers part with their point guard?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
If you’re a Sixers fan, you’re probably asking yourself a question. Why would we move a pick to flip Harden for LaVine? Once again – Harden is aging. He’s become volatile as well. Moreover, his trade value is depreciated by his trade demand. Harden is a distressed asset.
With that in mind, the Sixers would be lucky to flip him for LaVine. In fact, it would easily be worth the cost of a first-round pick.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers & Chicago Bulls Updates
After all, LaVine might be a better fit alongside Joel Embiid than Harden ever was. LaVine is less ball-dominant. He’s comfortable functioning as an off-guard and darting around screens to get open while Embiid is on the low block. Yet, LaVine can create his own shot when needed as well. Should the Bulls part with such a dynamic player?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
The Clippers may consider blowing up their roster. The Bulls practically have to blow theirs up. Unlike the Clippers, the Bulls have no excuses. This team enjoyed relative injury luck in 2022-23. They fell short of expectations anyway.
This core does not appear destined for success. It’s time to move on. With that in mind, this is a good return for the Bulls.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Zach LaVine, Philadelphia 76ers, Los Angeles Clippers & Chicago Bulls Updates
It’s got them landing two unprotected first-round picks from aging contenders. Meanwhile, they’re also adding a quality young player in Mann. That sounds more sensible than trading for James Harden to us.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
