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Joel Embiid and James Harden Led 76ers Could Benefit From a 3 Team Trade Before Deadline: Rumor

Published 01/15/2023, 3:50 PM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The Philadelphia 76ers arguably have one of the best starting lineups in the league. However, injuries to superstars like Joel Embiid and James Harden have slowed down their progress this season. Squad depth has been a huge problem for the team and with the trade deadline approaching, the Philadelphia franchise could be looking to make some moves. As per a rumor, there may be a three-team trade in the cards so as to bring a Houston Rockets player to the 76ers.

The player in question is Eric Gordon. He could be the answer to the Sixer’s problems but his huge salary can act as an obstacle to his signature. However, there exists a way the Sixers can land their man. A potential third team can enter the picture and make the deal happen.

The Philadelphia 76ers to look at options before the trade deadline

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Regardless of whether a team has some of the best players in the world or not, squad depth is essential to win the NBA title. Time and again, teams have displayed how having a good overall roster can help in the long NBA season.

The Philadelphia 76ers will want to challenge for the title this season and squad depth is something they will be looking to improve. One potential target for the Sixers is Eric Gordon of the Rockets.

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He is currently signed to a huge $19.5 million contract that runs through the 2023-24 NBA season. In order to get their man, the 76ers have to offer numerous draft picks to the Rockets.

Moreover, a potential trade scenario can arise with the help of the Sacramento Kings. While the Kings receive Tobias Harris and Kenyon Martin Jr, the Rockets receive Matisse Thybulle, Furkan Korkmaz, Alex Len, and multiple draft picks. This will allow the 76ers to have Eric Gordon, Harrison Barnes, and Richaun Holmes.

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On paper, this deal sounds like a win-win for all parties involved. While the Sixers improve their depth, the Kings get Tobias Harris to contribute in the offensive and the Rockets get to build on their future.

How have 76ers stars James Harden and Joel Embiid performed this season?

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Joel Embiid has struggled with injuries this season having played 31 games out of the 42 during the 2022-23 NBA season. Despite all the injuries, he is still performing for his team as he averages 33.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists.

Similar to Embiid, James Harden has had injury issues of his own. He has only played 27 games this season with an average of 22.2 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 11.1 assists. Thanks to their contribution and the overall good performance of the team, the 76ers are currently 4th in the Eastern Conference.

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What are your predictions for the Philadelphia 76ers this season? Let us know in the comments below.

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Written by:

Abhinava Ghosh

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Abhinava is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication. Abhinava has been following NBA for the past 6 years and is a huge fan of the Golden State Warriors and Stephen Curry.
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Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra