Overview
Overall, this was ultimately a deal that made sense for both sides. It needed to be done; both teams will also be better for it. In the end, this move will bolster both of the team’s title chances. At the same time, it has changed the dynamic of the Eastern Conference as a whole.
The Nets were already considered contenders in the East, but this move cements the Sixers as a true contender as well. Harden’s game will complement Embiid’s and this team will be nearly impossible to defend in the postseason.
Assuming that both Harden and Embiid will be healthy in the playoffs, it’s hard to see a better 1-2 in the East right now. For the Nets, as long as Durant is healthy, they’re going to be a lot to handle in a seven-game series. And the addition of Simmons solves their questions about their perimeter defense in the postseason.
The East just got better and the playoffs are shaping up to be a bloodbath.