[Saba Sports News] Philadelphia officially closed the chapter on the James Harden era with a blockbuster trade that sent him to his preferred destination, the LA Clippers, on Monday night. This trade brought the 76ers a blend of experienced veterans in their 30s and future draft assets.
Following this trade, Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated reported that two Eastern Conference stars have emerged as potential trade targets for the 76ers, utilizing the assets acquired in the deal: Zach LaVine of the Chicago Bulls and OG Anunoby of the Toronto Raptors.
LaVine, aged 28 and a multiple-time All-Star, is currently in the second year of a five-year, $215 million contract with Chicago, although there is a player option in the final year. The Bulls are experiencing early-season turbulence.
Anunoby, aged 26, is widely regarded as one of the league’s premier young two-way players. He averaged 16.8 points per game for Toronto last season and earned a place on the All-Defensive Team. Anunoby’s contract allows him to become a free agent after this season, and he has been the subject of trade rumors and reported discontent in the past.
The 76ers are clearly focused on immediate competition, with reigning MVP Joel Embiid, now in his prime at 29 years old, and young guard Tyrese Maxey rapidly ascending to stardom.
Consequently, there is a compelling argument for using some of the future draft picks acquired in the Harden trade, potentially along with expiring contracts, to acquire a dynamic talent like LaVine or Anunoby.