Reports: Philadelphia 76ers lose 2023 and 2024 2nd round draft picks for tampering involving PJ Tucker and Danuel House Jr.
The Philadelphia 76ers have reportedly been penalized for their offseason dealings with PJ Tucker and Danuel House Jr.. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the league's investigation suggested that tampering activities were valid and the 76ers have been fined two second-round draft picks in 2023 and 2024.
As announced on Monday afternoon, the 76ers reportedly engaged in negotiations with the players prior to the free agency window opening. This stands in direct violation of the league's free agency rules.
The 76ers also released a statement following this announcement:
"The Philadelphia 76ers fully cooperated with the NBA's investigation and acknowledge the league's ruling. We're moving forward, focused on the season ahead."
The 76ers also faced investigation with regards to James Harden's dubious paycut decision and his new two-year contract. However, Charania reported no wrongdoing in that regard.
Considering that both Tucker and House were former teammates of Harden in the Houston Rockets, the 76ers made a smart decision to add the two. However, the trades instantly garnered suspicion from the league.
The league’s investigation found no wrongdoing in James Harden’s near $15 million pay cut last summer – but findings showed that the 76ers made early free agency discussions with Danuel House Jr. and PJ Tucker, NBA says. twitter.com/shamscharania/…
With the Philadelphia 76ers being docked two second-round picks, the team finds themselves slightly shorthanded in draft capital heading into next year.
However, as per ESPN's Tim Bontemps, Philadelphia will still have a second-round pick in 2023. It will be a "favorable pick" via the Brooklyn Nets, Atlanta Hawks or the Charlotte Hornets.
The Philadelphia 76ers are finding momentum after a slow start to the season
After an active offseason, the Philadelphia 76ers came into this season with high expectations. With Joel Embiid, James Harden and young star Tyrese Maxey, the 76ers appeared to be a solid unit.
Despite James Harden impressing individually, the team found it difficult to secure wins in the first five games of the season. This could be attributed to their slow offensive rhythm and poor defensive rotations.
On a positive note, after their 118-111 win against the Washington Wizards, the team extended their winning streak to three games.
The team will return home after a four-game road trip and will be looking to carry on the momentum to improve past .500.