NBA Trade Rumors: The Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans are in trade talks centered around Jahlil Okafor
Anthony Davis could be on the verge of getting a new frontcourt mate.
According to USA Today’s Sam Amick, the New Orleans Pelicans and Philadelphia 76ers are involved in trade talks centered around Jahlil Okafor. The Sixers, who likely need to move one of Nerlens Noel and Jahlil Okafor, or both, are expected to be active in the weeks leading up to the NBA Trade Deadline.
From early reports, this deal could very well come down to whether or not New Orleans is OK with giving away their 2017 first-round pick unprotected. Though, it would make much more sense – and more reasonable – if there is at least some protection on it.
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If it is unprotected, woof.
"[via USA Today]Sixers & Pelicans in talks about sending Jahlil Okafor to New Orleans. Philly pushing for NO 1st rounder."
Okafor is averaging 11 points and five rebounds on 51 percent shooting from the field during his sophomore season. He’s only played in 34 games, starting 19 of them. During his rookie season a year ago, before his season ended in injury, Okafor averaged 17.5 points and seven rebounds on 50 percent shooting from the field.
According to ESPN’s Marc Stein, the New Orleans Pelicans have toyed with the idea of pairing Anthony Davis with an offensive-minded big for quite a while now. It appears that they’re on the verge of finally making it happen.
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Other reports indicate that this deal could be done today. The lone hold up, it appears, is the type of protection that may or may not be applied to the first-round pick that is moving from New Orleans to Philadelphia. One of Alexis Ajinca and Omer Asik is expected to also be involved in the deal, likely ended up in Philly.