Projected 76ers Trade Brings 6-Time All-Star to Philly

After a massive 8-1 start to the 2023-24 NBA season, the Philadelphia 76ers have come back to earth, going 3-4 in their last seven games. While inconsistencies can be attributed to several reasons, one of the biggest issues is that the Sixers aren't getting a ton of scoring beyond Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

In other words, it wouldn't be shocking if general manager Daryl Morey explored the trade market to pair another star alongside the aforementioned duo. Fortunately, Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley has one trade proposal that could solve Philly's woes.

76ers Trade Rumors: DeMar DeRozan Available?

Buckley proposes that the 76ers should make a play for the Chicago Bulls' DeMar DeRozan. After all, it wouldn't be too surprising to see the six-time NBA All-Star moved given that the Bulls are third-last in the Eastern Conference (5-13) on top of DeRozan being openly frustrated by how the campaign is unfolding.

As for the hypothetical deal, the 76ers would acquire DeRozan for Marcus Morris Sr., Nic Batum, Jaden Springer, and a top-four protected 2028 first-round pick.

It's easy to see how the deal would be mutually beneficial for both franchises. The 76ers would acquire DeRozan, who's averaging 21.5 points on .448/.366/.803 splits, 4.5 assists, and 3.3 rebounds in what's considered a "down year" for him. He's also played over 1,100 games between the regular season and playoffs, meaning a lack of experience won't be an issue.

Furthermore, DeRozan's free agent status at the end of the year means that the 76ers will have over $50 million to spend in free agency next summer, whereas a deal for Bulls teammate Zach LaVine would eat up about $43 million for the next three seasons.

As for the Bulls, Morris and Batum are non-factors due to their becoming free agents, too, at the end of the year. Chicago, meanwhile, would be the perfect spot for a reclamation project like Springer – drafted 28th overall in 2021 — who hasn't had much of an opportunity to shine in Philly (2 starts in 29 career games).

The 2028 first-rounder could also be a huge pick-up for the Bulls. The 76ers don't have anyone under contract in 2028 or beyond and if Embiid isn't around at that point, chances are that Philadelphia will be heading towards a rebuild, increasing the pick's value.

Besides, the Sixers have an unprotected 2028 first-round pick from the LA Clippers, so it isn't like they can't afford to give up their own.

Nevertheless, fans will have to wait to see if the hypothetical deal comes to fruition. The NBA rulebook states that teams must wait two months to trade players after they were acquired in a deal, meaning Morris and Batum can't be moved until after Dec. 30.

More Philadelphia 76ers news and rumors: