The confusion, mixed signals, and pure chaos revolving around a Ben Simmons-James Harden swap — it was all worth it.
Less than two hours ahead of Thursday’s NBA Trade Deadline, the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets finally pulled off the blockbuster trade that previously had the NBA community on the edge of its seats.
The deal, as reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, features Philadelphia sending Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond and two firsts to Brooklyn, who will send back James Harden and Paul Millsap in return.
Which side won the trade is all based on perspective. But there’s certainly no denying that Philly got better today.
The Nets are including Paul Millsap in the deal too, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/yTzxKqH99q
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 10, 2022
This season, the Sixers’ success has largely been a result of Joel Embiid having an MVP-type season (+200 at Tipico), averaging 29.4 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game. Yet, the Sixers still find themselves at just 5th place out East after finishing as the conference’s No. 1 team a season ago. Respectfully, the season was more due to Joel Embiid being superhuman while getting “okay” contributions from the rest of the roster, a recipe not suited for postseason basketball.
That’s where James Harden comes in. His addition to the team instantly changes the outlook on Philly as a title contender. He’s not the MVP-level of player that he once was in Houston, but he’ll bring a 22.5-point, 10.2-assist, 8.0 rebound per game average to the City of Brotherly Love. He’s still one of the game’s greatest passers and will ultimately make life easier on Embiid throughout the game.
Philadelphia ranks in the bottom third of the league in points per game. With the trade announced, Sixers bettors should expect an uptick in scoring, which could be something that could impact the overs/unders going forward.
You’ve also got to like Philly’s enhanced championship odds.
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