PJ Tucker’s starting five spot appears to be a weakness, despite Philly’s potential guard revolving door. Over a month ago, Zach Buckley of Bleacher Report suggested the Sixers trade for Suns forward Jae Crowder to replace Tucker.
Sixers’ Three-Team Trade Proposal Lands Potential PJ Tucker Replacement
Sean Deveney of Heavy Sports reported that the Sixers could trade for Crowder with Phoenix and the Chicago Bulls.
“The interest has been there from the Bulls, too, all along because of the [Chicago Bulls GM Marc] Eversley connection, but there would have to be a third team involved because Chicago does not have the big guys the Sixers want,” an Eastern Conference GM told Deveney. “But if they were to send a guy like Alex Caruso to Phoenix, Phoenix sends Jae Crowder to Philly, and Philly sends Thybulle and Korkmaz to Chicago, maybe add Paul Reed there, a DePaul guy, that would work for everyone.”
The Sixers’ trade deadline plans match a Korkmaz-Thybulle trade.
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Sixers Consider Thybulle, Korkmaz Money-Saving Moves
Prognosticators and crystal ball users loved Ben Simmons‘ future last year. But those expecting a similar blockbuster will be disappointed.
With the Sixers so close to the luxury tax, Jake Fischer of Yahoo reports that they are considering salary-shedding deals.
“There is also a financial aspect that may underscore the Sixers’ trade deadline efforts if the right upgrades don’t materialize,” Fischer said. “This season currently marks Philadelphia’s third straight year as a taxpayer, which would subject the Sixers to pay repeater tax rates on every dollar over the 2023-24 tax threshold. The Sixers are hovering just above this year’s tax line at present, which could put players like Furkan Korkmaz, Matisse Thybulle, and Jaden Springer in the trade conversation.”
Korkmaz will earn $5 million, Thybulle $4.3 million. Philadelphia is $1.17 million over the luxury tax threshold. Dropping that figure could save ownership money for free agency or Tyrese Maxey and James Harden deals.
Billionaires saving money is laughable. It’s worth the move if Philly can save for the future. Ben Franklin, Philadelphia’s adopted son, said a penny saved is a penny earned.
Sixers Dropping Former Top Pick?
Before the trade deadline, Thybulle, Korkmaz, and others may receive Daryl Morey’s caller ID. Jaden Springer, Philly’s first-round pick from two summers ago, may also be traded, according to Marc Stein.
“There is a rising expectation that Philadelphia will look to move either Jaden Springer or Furkan Korkmaz before the Feb. 9 trade deadline in hopes of shedding luxury-tax dollars,” Stein said.
Springer will make just over $2 million this season despite never making the rotation as a pro. His defensive instincts are strong, but he lacks an offensive game and hasn’t impressed the front office in the G-League this season.
Springer’s youth and defensive potential may attract a young team. Philadelphia is a win-now team.
