The Philadelphia 76ers are expected to be one of the biggest buyers this summer — be it via NBA free agency or through the trade market. At this point, it appears that the Philly front office is intent on adding a third star to what has become an elite partnership between Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Los Angeles Clippers star Paul George is reportedly the top target for the Sixers this summer, but if Philadelphia strikes out on the nine-time All-Star, then it seems that they already have a solid contingency plan in place.
Philadelphia 76ers News: Paul George Is ‘Plan A’
Multiple reports have already linked the Sixers to a sensational swoop on George via free agency as the 6-foot-8 small forward’s contract extension talks with the Clippers continue to stall. According to NBA insider Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer, George’s ability to play multiple roles makes him a desirable addition to the Sixers:
“One night, George plays like an MVP. The next, he’s an elite 3-and-D role player. This type of versatility is exactly what the Sixers need. They’re looking for another star, but they also need players who can fill various roles. PG-13 is both, which is why sources familiar with Philly’s strategy say he is the team’s plan A in free agency,” O’Connor wrote.
Brandon Ingram Contingency Plan
There is still a significant chance that George ends up signing an extension with LA. However, if he decides to test the waters of free agency, the Sixers will have a lot of competition for the 34-year-old’s signature.
Philly is well aware of this fact, which is why they aren’t placing all their eggs in the PG basket. Apparently, New Orleans Pelicans star Brandon Ingram has emerged as a trade target for the Sixers as well:
“Aside from the pipe dream that Kevin Durant or Jimmy Butler would ask to be dealt directly to Philly, sources familiar with the Sixers’ thinking say that Brandon Ingram is the primary fallback plan. Ingram would have to be acquired in a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans since he’s under contract for $36 million with a 15 percent trade kicker through the 2024-25 season. But the Sixers could absorb him without sacrificing any salary, a major benefit to the Pelicans, who could then operate with cap space and receive draft picks from the Sixers,” O’Connor wrote.
Ingram is no Paul George, but he’s not a bad backup plan at all. In fact, he could very well be the missing piece that is finally able to take the 76ers over the hump next season.
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