Although the Philadelphia 76ers remain at the forefront of the teams likely to target a high-profile and high-dollar NBA free agent, they may find it tough to navigate once the offseason begins.
While re-signing Tyrese Maxey will surely be a focus, the other top options include LeBron James and Paul George, but both players are likely to remain with their current teams, potentially on new deals.
George and the 76ers have been linked numerous times this season, but if he re-signs with the Los Angeles Clippers, what's plan B in Philly?
It may be Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine, according to Yahoo Sports NBA insider Jake Fischer, who cites that if the 76ers miss out on a high-profile wing, a trade for LaVine could be on the table.
“Striking out on a big-time wing would also leave the door open for Philadelphia to consider taking back a player such as Zach LaVine, sources said, in the event Chicago or another team is willing to attach draft capital to move off salary.”
The interesting part of that is the aspect of the Bulls potentially needing to attach draft capital to move LaVine's salary. However, it's not a complete surprise to hear, as the Bulls were unable to move LaVine before the NBA trade deadline this season.
The 29-year-old guard still has three years remaining on his five-year, $215 million deal, with the 2026-27 season being a player option.
Much of the 76ers' offseason approach will likely be determined by what happens with George and the Clippers, but don't expect Daryl Morey and Co. to head into the 2024-25 season without pushing hard to make a big move.
