Trust The Process
Yeah, I know, it’s not original. But that’s exactly what the 76ers need to do. Their patience with Joel Embiid has paid off. He’s their future. They have solid pieces on the roster, and they’re set to get rid of Okafor any day now. Right now I would say their biggest weakness is the 1 spot, but McConnell continues to supersede any expectations scouts/people had on him coming out of college. He’s a capable stopgap option, and should be looked at a a long-term backup. In the meantime, they need to be thinking long-term…. and I think I have the solution.
If Jeremy Lin had been more healthier this season, he may have actually nabbed a first round pick for the Nets, but instead, they are left to try to acquire as many draft picks as they can to unearth gems to build around… and that may have to come at the expense of their best offensive player next to Brook Lopez.
Lin has played well when healthy, but he hasn’t been healthy since late December. While Philly would be betting on him regaining his form when he does return, it’s better than waiting until next season for Bayless. He could bring that veteran playoff experience Philly would need (and is lacking) if/when they make the postseason.
Brooklyn, on the other hand, is the worst team in the NBA. They’re 9-45 as I write this, and are going nowhere fast. They can afford to wait for their latest stopgap option to come back next season as they continue to take looks at guys like Isaiah Whitehead and Spencer Dinwiddie. They get picks, and everyone goes home happy.
Conclusion
Well, this concludes part 1, which focused on the Eastern Conference.
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Maybe you think I’m crazy and that none of these trades are plausible. Maybe you think some are, but others are too out there. I’ll just remind you – this is just speculation. None of these trades could happen. The point of this article was to come up with ideal trades for teams.
If you liked this and want more, stay tuned for part 2 – the Western Conference.