Addition by subtraction. It’s not a concept that works for everyone. Some NBA fans don’t like to hear about it. Wouldn’t it be better to add talent simply?
Sure. With that said, losing a talented player can benefit a team. That may seem counterintuitive, but it’s reality. Some ball-dominant players need a specific roster around them to succeed. Take James Harden of the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Clippers have been struggling mightily to incorporate him into their offense. On the other hand, the Philadelphia 76ers have looked stronger since moving him. This may be a case of addition by subtraction.
After all, the Sixers didn’t get a star in return for Harden. Instead, they got assets. Most are expecting them to move those assets for a star. With the team looking as strong as they do, the Sixers might be better served to prioritize fit over top-end talent as they look to improve their roster.
Could they make a move for Malcolm Brogdon of the Portland Trail Blazers?
NBA Trade Proposal: Philadelphia 76ers Land Portland Trail Blazers’ Malcolm Brogdon
Portland Trail Blazers Receive: F/C Marcus Morris Sr., G/F Furkan Korkmaz, 2028 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – PHI)
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Malcolm Brogdon
On the other hand, some subtractions are simply subtractions. When a team loses their best player, the odds are overwhelmingly high that they’re going to get worse. Just look at the Blazers.
They lost Damian Lillard, and now they’re a lottery team. This should have been expected. In most NBA circles, it was. Yet, some fans had higher expectations for Portland. They were fixated on the young talent on this roster.
To be sure, the future is bright for the Blazers. Still, young talent has a way of struggling in the National Basketball Association. The Blazers have been no exception.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Malcolm Brogdon, Portland Trail Blazers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Shaedon Sharpe can put up points, but he’s prone to listlessness. Scoot Henderson has flashed upside, but even when healthy, he’s learning how to run point in the NBA.
The Blazers need to have a rebuilding mindset. Does this deal do enough for their future?
Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal
We think so. Before his injury, Brogdon was looking like a player worth an unprotected first-rounder. Yet, those injury concerns were always holding his trade value back.
Now that he’s gotten hurt, the Blazers shouldn’t be holding out for a premium return for the veteran combo guard. So, this deal makes sense. A lottery-protected first-round pick is still a valuable asset. Meanwhile, Morris Sr. is on an expiring deal.
This is exactly the type of future-focused package that Portland should be seeking in exchange for Brogdon. Korkmaz could be included in that vision as well.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Malcolm Brogdon, Portland Trail Blazers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The small-market Blazers don’t typically like to lose for long. This team will want to be back in the playoffs in a few years. If nothing else, Korkmaz is appropriate for their timeline.
Should the Sixers part with him?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
There’s been another benefit to Harden’s departure in Philadelphia. Tyrese Maxey has emerged as a bonafide superstar. As Philly’s new lead guard, he’s putting up All-NBA numbers. Should they really look to add another guard?
Sure. Brogdon is a combo guard. He can work off of the ball when Maxey has it. Meanwhile, he can be a sturdy secondary playmaker when Maxey needs a rest. His versatile skillset will suit this team. Moreover, Brogdon fits with the defensive philosophy that new head coach Nick Nurse is trying to implement.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Malcolm Brogdon, Portland Trail Blazers, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
He’s worth this price as well. Korkmaz allegedly wants out of Philadelphia, and Morris Sr. is expendable. The Sixers should part with a lottery protected first if it helps them upgrade their roster. This time, they’ll simply be making an addition.
