3 moves Philadelphia 76ers could make before NBA trade deadline
Heading into the trade deadline, the Philadelphia 76ers find themselves in a tough situation. While they've had their sights set on contending for an NBA title, recent injury news to Joel Embiid drastically changes their trajectory.
Against the Golden State Warriors last week, Embiid suffered an injury to the meniscus in his left knee. He recently had a procedure done and will be evaluated again in a month.
With their star player out of action, the Philadelphia 76ers have to navigate a tough stretch. As there's hope that Embiid will return again this season, Daryl Morey is expected to seek upgrades at the deadline.
With one day to go until the deadline, here are some possible avenues the Sixers could pursue.
Trades Philadelphia 76ers could make at the trade deadline
1) Acquiring Bruce Brown
One of the more interesting names on the trade market is Bruce Brown. After he was sent to the Toronto Raptors in the Pascal Siakam trade, many expect the former champion to be on the move again.
From a fit standpoint, Brown makes a lot of sense for the Philadelphia 76ers. He's someone who could come off the bench or play alongside Tyrese Maxey in the starting lineup.
Along with being a positive on the defensive end, he could be used in a variety of ways of offense. Browns ability to attack defenses as an off-ball cutter would make him a good fit alongside Joel Embiid.
2) Adding more frontcourt depth
Some might argue that the Philadelphia 76ers need an upgrade at backup center. Following the Embiid injury, it has become an important area of need leading up to the trade deadline.
Chicago Bulls big man Andre Drummond is one player the Sixers could target. He's a familiar face, having played half a season in Philly in 2022. As a former All-Star, Drummond is also someone who could hold down the frontcourt while Embiid recovers.
This season, Drummond is averaging 7.9 points and 8.5 rebounds off the bench for the Bulls.
3) Taking a big swing with Dejounte Murray
The final route the Philadelphia 76ers could go is taking a big swing at the deadline. With Zach LaVine getting surgery, Dejounte Murray is the biggest name on the market.
As an All-Star-level player, the Atlanta Hawks guard could aid the Sixers in their pursuit of an NBA title. He could also help fill the void left by the reiging league MVP.
Along with bringing length on defense, Murray has shown that he's capable of playing alongside another ball-dominant guard. That will allow the Sixers to keep Tyrese Maxey on the ball while also upgrading their backcourt. Murray is averaging 21.4 ppg, 5.1 rpg and 5.2 apg.