In the NBA, it’s good to have options. A team wants to be in a position where they can make several decisions. The goal is to decide which option is best and choose it.
The Philadelphia 76ers gave themselves some options when they traded James Harden. They didn’t receive a star player in return for their star. Instead, they received assets. How should they use them?
It’s a matter of debate. The Sixers could trade for a star. On the other hand, they could trade for some role players. The Sixers could even split the difference and trade for a lower-level star and some additional depth.
Could they go that route by acquiring Kyle Kuzma from the Washington Wizards?
NBA Trade Proposal: Philadelphia 76ers Land Washington Wizards’ Kyle Kuzma
Washington Wizards Receive: F Tobias Harris, 2029 First-Round Pick (PHI)
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: F Kyle Kuzma, G Tyus Jones
When you’ve got a good option, you need to capitalize on it. If you let it pass you by, you’ll miss out on the benefits. That’s true in life, but it’s also true in the NBA.
Look at the Wizards. This summer, they traded Bradley Beal to the Phoenix Suns. The return was underwhelming. If the Wizards had moved Beal a couple of years ago, they might have received a better haul. The Wizards missed their opportunity.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Still, it’s better late than never. The Wizards could be in a worse position. Bilal Coulibaly has flashed potential, and the Wizards should be able to capitalize on the lottery for years.
Should they trade their best player for more draft capital?
Why The Washington Wizards Do The Deal
It’s been rumored that the Wizards are open to moving Kuzma. With that said, it’s been suggested that Washington is looking for multiple first-rounders for him. We’re skeptical. Kuzma’s contract is going to scare off some suitors.
A single first-rounder ought to do. Even that might be optimistic, but it should be doable if the Wizards are willing to attach Jones to Kuzma’s deal. A distant first from a contender is especially valuable – Joel Embiid will be out of his prime by the time this pick conveys.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
There are other benefits to moving Kuzma. The Wizards shouldn’t rush their rebuild. Moving Kuzma should secure them a place in the lottery for the next few years. Moreover, Harris’ deal is expiring – the Wizards will clear a lot of cap space this summer by making this deal.
Should the Sixers help the Wizards save some money?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
Kuzma is a more dynamic player than Harris. He’s a better playmaker and shot-creator. Typically, Harris is the superior floor spacer – but in 2023-24, Kuzma has even been more consistent from long range.
This should make the Sixers a better team. After all, they’re not strictly flipping Harris for Kuzma here. Tyus Jones leads the league in assist-to-turnover ratio on a nearly annual basis. He’ll be a perfect complimentary guard to put alongside Tyrese Maxey.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Finally, the Sixers would still have some picks to spare after making this deal. They could make another deal this summer if they fall short of expectations this year. In other words, the Sixers will still have options.
