The Philadelphia 76ers got their big deals done already. They started off by trading Paul George for Jaylen Brown, and more recently became the chosen destination of LeBron James. Their roster has limited flexibility, but there is still a path to some moves. Let’s take a look at some options they could pursue via the NBA buyout market after the LeBron signing.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has been the name most frequently connected to the buyout market so far this offseason. He was teammates with LeBron for three seasons on the Los Angeles Lakers.
Caldwell-Pope averaged 8.4 points a game last season with the Memphis Grizzlies. His percentages were down; he shot 41% from the field and 31.6% from three. Still, he would become an important piece off the 76ers bench, providing veteran and championship experience.
UPDATE: Caldwell-Pope intends to sign with the 76ers after negotiating a buyout with the Grizzlies according to Chris Haynes.
Klay Thompson would be the dream target for Philadelphia if he is bought out of his contract by the Dallas Mavericks. As of now, there aren’t many indicators that it will happen. There have been rumors pointing in that direction, most notably when discussing the Miami Heat.
Thompson would be the best sixth-man option in the league, providing a shooting spark, even in his age-36 season. He averaged just under 12 points a game and shot nearly 40% from three last season.
The 76ers roster as constructed would greatly benefit from a shooter like Thompson. It would be fun to see the potential lineup combinations Nick Nurse could put together.
Kevin Love is a target that just makes too much sense at this point in the offseason. The 76ers need frontcourt help, specifically at the center position. Love would provide extra depth, while still being able to rebound at his older age. He will be 38 in September.
Love has a long-standing relationship with LeBron, and he was connected to this decision throughout the process. He hasn’t been linked to the 76ers yet, but don’t be surprised to hear his name brought up.
Philadelphia needs someone they can trust at the center position. Adem Bona and Ariel Hukporti are complete wildcards if Joel Embiid misses time. Love would provide nice insurance just in case.
The 76ers have finally gotten to a point where they can say they’ve completed the process. It’s taken so, so long, but they’ve finally gotten the roster to a point where they can contend. For a more detailed look at how the LeBron signing impacts the 76ers, check out our latest piece.
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