Once upon a time, Scott O’ Neil was quoted as saying that the Sixers were “a year away” from being players for top free agents. The main reason behind the statement, is because of the Sixers lack of a winning record. While that statement made by O’Neil is true, there’s another way for the Sixers to acquire a household name.
That other way, as Sam Amico of FOX Sports Ohio notes, is via trade. Amico is reporting that Sixers have “discussed” a possible trade with the Los Angeles Clippers for superstar big man Blake Griffin. It was also noted that the Nuggets have discussed Griffin with the Clippers, but Dan Woike of the OC Register later noted that nothing much came of those talks.
Since coming on board, Jerry Colangelo has seemed to change the Sixers rebuilding plans a bit. The team seems to have become more comfortable with moving some young assets for established talent, if the opportunity presents itself. Well, it looks as if the Sixers want to capitalize on this opportunity.
By acquiring Blake Griffin, the Sixers would land that “household” name that they’ve been searching for. That player to put butts in the seats, and attract those marquee free-agents. While the former Oklahoma Sooner is out of commission for another month (at least…), he’s a game-changer when he’s on the court. He’s a safe bet for at least 15 points and 10 boards on a nightly basis. The big man has averaged 23.2 points per game, and 8.7 rebounds per game this season, before breaking his hand.
It’s not known what the Clippers seek in return, but the price is bound to be high. Rumors have spread about the price tag including Jahlil Okafor, Dario Saric, and the Lakers 2016 top-3 protected first-round draft pick. However, my own speculation leads me to believe that the organization would be more inclined to move Nerlens Noel over Okafor, as Okafor has (in my opinion..) proven to be more of a complete player than Noel. I’m not saying that Noel isn’t a good player, because he’s proved that he can be great. Personally, I just believe Okafor has a better chance at becoming an elite player, as opposed to Noel.
Tags: Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers, NBA News, NBA Trade Deadline, Philadelphia Sixers, Philly Sports News, Ryan Waterman, Sixers News, TalkSportsPhilly
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