According to Sam Amick, the 76ers are among the teams that have interest in trading for Chris Paul this offseason. The Bucks and Lakers have reported interest as well. If this was a year ago, I would’ve opposed a trade for Chris Paul. However, let’s take a look at why the 76ers should make it happen, and if they’ll be able to.
Why the 76ers Should Target CP3
Chris Paul is coming off his first healthy season since 2015-16, where he made his last All Star appearance before this year as well. In 70 regular season games, he averaged 31.5 MPG, 17.6 PPG, 5 RPG, 6.7 APG, and 1.6 SPG while shooting 48.9% from the field, 36.5% from 3, and 90.7% from the line. He led an OKC team that many thought would be bottom feeders to the playoffs, where they just lost in 7 games to the Rockets. In the playoffs he averaged 37.3 MPG, 21.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 5.3 APG, and 1.6 SPG shooting 49.1% from the field, 37.2% from 3, and 88.5% from the line. He was also the leader in points in the clutch this season, on fantastic efficiency. We saw guys like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Dennis Schröder benefit from playing with Cp3. Now imagine the impact he’d have as a mentor on Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. They both could learn so much about the game itself from him and it could change their mentalities. Paul also would fit seamlessly with the two Sixers stars. He’d provide an actual option to go to in the clutch, and he’d be lethal in the pick and roll with Joel. Ideally the Sixers would trade Tobias Harris, a young player, and picks to get Paul. It would be sad to see Tobias and Tisse/Milton go, but I think that this trade would put the Sixers back into contention in the East. If Paul declines, his contract is still better than Harris’. Harris has 4 years left on his max deal, while Cp3 has 2 years left including a player option.
Will the Thunder Accept a Sixers Package?
It is unclear how willing the Thunder are to part ways with Paul. It does make a lot of sense tho, as it is unlikely that they make any improvements with Gallinari heading to free agency. Paul is also at his peak trade value, not only did he have an amazing season but he also holds a player option in 2021-22. A Sixers package may make the most sense for Sam Presti. The Lakers and Bucks lack young assets and picks, and the Lakers do not have the salaries to match. Plus, they’ll also be focusing on the impending free agency of Anthony Davis, who’s likely to stay. With that being said, a package of Tobias, Milton/Thybulle, and picks might be the best option for the Thunder. Tobias is much better when he has the ball in his hands, and can be a key player for years to come as OKC isn’t much of a free agent destination. Milton or Thybulle would be fantastic young pieces, imagine perimeter stars trying to score on Dort and Thybulle. And the picks would already build onto their massive stash of draft capital.
Conclusion
A Chris Paul trade is the Sixers’ best option this offseason. It would put them right back into contention and help develop Embiid and Simmons. However, it is unclear how willing both sides would be to get a deal done.
Philadelphia Sports Chronicle 