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Potential Deadline Additions to Bolster the Sixers’ Roster
The NBA trade rumor mill is buzzing, with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future in Milwaukee dominating headlines. While a superstar like Giannis remains a long shot, the heating market gives the Philadelphia 76ers opportunities to upgrade for a playoff push.
Coming off a frustrating 112-108 loss to the Lakers—where they blew a double-digit lead in the fourth—the Sixers sit at 13-10, sixth in the East. Tyrese Maxey (31.6 PPG) is carrying the offense, and Paul George adds two-way stability. Still, third-quarter slumps, Embiid’s load management, and occasional depth issues highlight areas to address.
As we pass the quarter mark of the season and the February 5 trade deadline approaches, here are five realistic targets (and one dream) that could fit Philadelphia’s timeline and needs:
1. Daniel Gafford, C, Dallas Mavericks
A proven rim-runner and shot-blocker (8.9 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 1.4 BPG), Gafford would be ideal insurance behind Embiid and a complement to Andre Drummond. Dallas is reportedly open to moving veterans, and Gafford’s affordable extension makes him attainable for second-round picks and salary filler. Low-risk depth with lob-threat upside alongside Maxey.
2. Herbert Jones, SF, New Orleans Pelicans
With the Pelicans mired in a 3-20 disaster, Jones—an elite 3-and-D wing and 2024 All-Defensive selection—has surfaced in trade talks. His ability to guard 1-through-4 would bolster Philly’s perimeter defense and let George play more off-ball. A package built around Kelly Oubre Jr.’s expiring deal and a protected first could get it done.
3. Trey Murphy III, SG/SF, New Orleans Pelicans
The bigger swing from the same struggling Pelicans roster. Murphy, 25, is averaging 20.5 PPG with strong three-point shooting and athleticism. He’d provide spacing and scoring punch off the bench or in the starting lineup, addressing third-quarter lulls. It would cost a first-rounder plus assets, but he’s a win-now and long-term fit.
4. Keon Ellis, SG, Sacramento Kings
A low-cost, high-upside bench spark. The 25-year-old undrafted guard shoots 38.5% from three, defends tenaciously, and can handle secondary playmaking. Sacramento’s rough start makes him available for seconds and a minimal salary match. Perfect for stabilizing second-unit offense without breaking the bank.
5. Jaren Jackson Jr., PF/C, Memphis Grizzlies
The blockbuster dream. If Memphis pivots into a rebuild—especially with ongoing Ja Morant questions—Jackson (DPOY 2023, 22+ PPG, elite rim protection) could become available. Pairing him with Embiid would create a terrifying defensive frontcourt while adding spacing. It would require Paul George or significant assets, but landing a 26-year-old two-way star in his prime would vault Philly into true contention.
The Sixers need consistency and health more than anything, but a smart deadline addition could solidify them as Eastern Conference threats. They return to action Friday against a shorthanded Indiana Pacers squad—a prime bounce-back spot before a tough December stretch. – Get your cheap tickets at Ticketx
Trust the Process: one calculated move could make all the difference.
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Jake Mayson
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