OKC Thunder: Power Rankings all teams at the trade deadline

Philadelphia 76ers: Buyers

Week 13: 3-1

Offense: (112.2.) 13th
Defense: (107.1) 2nd
Net: (Plus +5.1) 7th

In his first season in Philly, executive Daryl Morey made big moves in the offseason to start restructuring the team around Joel Embiid. Hiring head coach Doc Rivers was a coup paying immediate dividends but depth is an issue. Philly’s bench unit ranks 22nd in scoring with 34 points per game and needs an infusion of scoring.

Although the 76ers’ defense ranks second a deep run would likely mean facing the Nets and/or Bucks if they want to reach the finals. Those clubs possess the first and third-ranked offenses.

Conversely, Philly ranks 27th in 3-pointers made and 22nd in assists.

Although defense wins championships with those two offensive juggernauts potentially on tap en route to the finals the Sixers would be best served by adding some scoring panache with 3-point chops. Few of the players on Philly can create their own shots let alone for their teammates.

A prototypical point guard who can score and more importantly unleash the full potential of Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, and Tobias Harris would be the ideal fix.

Morey traded for Kyle Lowry when he was in Houston so he’s well acquainted with the veteran point guard who is considered the heart and soul of the Raptors. His services wouldn’t come cheap, however, and there could be a bidding war. The Heat is also covetous of the Raptors GOAT.  Lowry is a native of Philly but he’s good friends with Jimmy Butler and if” (contrary to popular opinion it’s not a done deal he’ll be traded) the Raptors trade Lowry they’ll consult him on his preferred location before making a move.

If Morey finds the asking price too rich, the GM who made analytics popular might want to consider the services of OKC Thunder George Hill who doesn’t bring the same championship pedigree but checks a lot of the boxes at a more economical rate.