Storyline: On paper, the trades raise eyebrows. The 76ers appear to have given up more value than they received.
The Philadelphia 76ers made some interesting changes to their roster during and before Thursday’s trade deadline–two trades made within a two-day span. Both trades are very questionable moves by the front office and many fans are curious about–even furious over–the moves.
Ersan Ilyasova checks out the team name on his jersey (photo, Uproxx)
The first trade was to the Atlanta Hawks. The Sixers traded Ersan Ilyasova for Tiago Splitter and draft considerations (most likely a second-round pick). The Sixers had aquired Ilyasova and a first-round pick earlier in the season from Oklahoma City for young guard/forward Jerami Grant.
Ilyasova was playing very well for Philadelphia, averaging 14.8 points and 5.9 rebounds a game. He was a big part of the team’s success over he past few months. Splitter, a new addition in Atlanta, has less impressive numbers this year–5.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.
Ilyasova’s departure was a big surprise to Sixers fans. There had been rumors swirling about the team moving Nerlens Noel and, especially, Jahlil Okafor. While many fans aren’t happy with Ilyasova’s departure, his loss could mean more playing time for Dario Saric, who’s on fire with 10.8 points and 5.9 rebounds a game. He’s also shooting nearly 80% from the line.
The second trade was with the Dallas Mavericks. The Sixers traded center/power forward Nerlens Noel for guard Justin Anderson, center Andrew Bogut, and a protected first-round pick. If the pick isn’t conveyed, then it will turn into two second-round picks.
Nerlens Noel (photo, bleacherreport.com)
With rumors about Okafor’s potential departure, many fans thought Noel’s position was safe. Noel has been with the team since his rookie season when he was traded to the Sixers by the New Orleans Pelicans a month after draft day. He was a crucial part in the team’s lineup, especially since the injury to rookie sensation Joel Embiid. In two+ seasons with the Sixers Nerlens had averaged 10.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks a game.
The players sent to Philadelphia, Justin Anderson and Andrew Bogut, are raising eyebrows locally. Since last season Anderson has only played in 11 games. Bogut may prove to be the key player in the trade, even if (as rumored) buyout discussions are already underway.
Bogut was drafted first overall by the Bucks in 2006. He made the 2006 NBA all-rookie team, lead the NBA in blocks in 2011, and has a championship with the Golden State Warriors. In 670 career games he has averaged 10 points and 8.9 rebounds a game. Bogut has one season left on his contract and he’ll be paid $11m guaranteed.
In all likeliness, Splitter and Bogut will be released soon. If that doesn’t happen, then Philadelphia will have to make due with what I consider to be a questionable deals.
