The NBA’s trade market is always evolving. Circumstances change, and the best general managers change with them. This summer, we know who the major players are. There are situations that will determine what happens across the Association.
For example, will the Miami Heat find a way to acquire Damian Lillard? The two sides appear to be at a stalemate.
So do James Harden and the Philadelphia 76ers. With that in mind, if Harden does leave the Sixers, some have speculated that Joel Embiid would follow. Could he end up being the star that the Heat acquire?
The Trade Proposal
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: F/C Bam Adebayo, G/F Duncan Robinson, 2027 First-Round Pick (MIA)
Miami Heat Receive: C Joel Embiid
In fact, the NBA’s trade market changes more quickly now than ever. If you’re not quick enough, it’s easy to fall behind. Star players request trades more freely than ever. Meanwhile, teams have always done what’s best for them. All of which results in an NBA where nothing is sacred.
Look at Lillard and the Blazers. They were supposed to be the last vestige of player/team loyalty. Now, Lillard wants out, and this projects to be an acrimonious divorce.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers & Miami Heat Updates
With that context in mind, why wouldn’t Harden leave the Sixers? Why wouldn’t Embiid follow? If Damian Lillard can leave the Blazers, anyone can go anywhere. Should Embiid go to Miami?
Why The Miami Heat Do The Deal
This would be a difficult call for the Heat to make. That doesn’t mean it isn’t the right one. Sure, losing Adebayo stings. He was absolutely critical to Miami’s 2022-23 Finals run. Still, if Embiid is available, Adebayo should be too.
Why? This is the league’s reigning MVP. You don’t get sentimental about trading for him – you do whatever is necessary.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers & Miami Heat Updates
Embiid’s low block scoring and floor spacing will juice this team’s offense. Meanwhile, he’s a superior rim protector to Adebayo even if he’s less versatile on defense. Simply put, this deal makes them a better team. What does it do for the Sixers?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
Firstly, the Sixers only do this deal if Embiid wants a trade. If he doesn’t, they’ll keep him. Still, recent comments by the big man suggest that he’s open to changing locations. if the Sixers lose Harden, he’s likely to get more open to that possibility.
Let’s assume the Sixers are cornered. They need to trade Embiid. In all likelihood, they could get a package that features more draft capital from other teams. On the other hand, they won’t get a package featuring a player as good as Adebayo. He’d be joining Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris on a fairly deep squad.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers & Miami Heat Updates
If everything clicks, this team could remain competitive while getting younger in the process. Who knows? Before long, they could be buyers on the trade market once again.
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