76ers Might Half Methods With Andre Drummond, However Who Else Could Be Dealt?

Andre Drummond was the beast paint that almost all NBA gamers worry, however not anymore. His energy, rebounding prowess, and protection have declined, and he isn’t in his prime anymore. Ahead of the February 5 NBA commerce deadline, the Philadelphia 76ers won’t want his service this time.

According to league sources, Philadelphia is open to transferring the 32-year-old heart, a improvement that signifies the Sixers are in search of a simpler and youthful massive man.

Why the 76ers Are Willing to Move Andre Drummond

Drummond is enjoying on an expiring $5 million contract and has carried out reliably as Joel Embiid’s backup. When Embiid missed time, Drummond stepped in as a succesful starter, delivering robust rebounding and inside protection.

However, the emergence of second-year heart Adem Bona has altered the staff’s long-term outlook. Philadelphia now views Bona as a cost-controlled, developmental possibility, lowering Drummond’s future position past this season, per The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Keith Pompey.

The danger is apparent: buying and selling Drummond would depart the Sixers skinny at backup heart, an vital concern given Embiid’s harm historical past.

Trade Market Interest and Potential Suitors

The New York Knicks have emerged as a attainable touchdown spot, with Drummond seen as insurance coverage behind the injury-prone Mitchell Robinson. Any deal, nonetheless, would require New York to create extra wage flexibility.

This season, Drummond is averaging 7.1 factors and 9.0 rebounds in 20 minutes per recreation, together with a standout 24-rebound efficiency towards Miami in November.

Speaking of the Knicks, former 76ers ahead Guerschon Yabusele was as soon as rumored to be traded final yr. Now, he performs in New York. However, he nonetheless does not get sufficient minutes to show his expertise. As rumors counsel, he is also traded forward of the commerce deadline.

Other Veterans Who Could Be Moved

Drummond might not be the one Sixer drawing commerce curiosity. Eric Gordon, on a $3.63 million expiring contract, has performed a restricted on-court position and might be moved to a staff with cap area. That stated, his veteran management, notably his mentorship of rookie VJ Edgecombe, might preserve him in Philadelphia.

Meanwhile, Kelly Oubre Jr. and Quentin Grimes are additionally on expiring offers, although Grimes’ no-trade clause complicates potential negotiations.

Where Philadelphia Stands

The 76ers at the moment sit sixth within the Eastern Conference at 24–21, simply 1.5 video games behind Cleveland. Losing Paul George and Joel Embiid is a large blow to a contending staff, however this additionally gave different gamers an opportunity to shine. The staff seems to be like a staff that would tank, however Tyrese Maxey is main the cost, so the Sixers might nonetheless enter the playoffs this season.