The NBA is a star’s league. It’s driven by star power. Few people have understood this, including Philadelphia 76ers general manager Daryl Morey.
Morey has made a career of acquiring star players. When he makes a deal, typically, he’s receiving a star. That’s what made the James Harden deal that he made this year so exceptional.
Morey gave up a star and didn’t receive one in return. At least, not yet. Morey received assets in that deal. Some are expecting him to trade for a star by using them.
Could he trade for a former star instead by acquiring Chris Paul from the Golden State Warriors?
NBA Trade Proposal: Philadelphia 76ers Land Golden State Warriors’ Chris Paul
Golden State Warriors Receive: F/C Marcus Morris Sr., F Nicolas Batum
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Chris Paul
With that said, stars fade. Paul isn’t the only example. Fans of the league get accustomed to dominant performances from certain players. In time, those dominant performances will cease.
On the other hand, players are extending their prime longer than ever before. Look at Harden. He appeared to be losing steam with the 76ers. Sure, Harden is aging – but on the Los Angeles Clippers, he’s thriving in a slightly reduced role.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Chris Paul, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
For that matter, Paul has been solid for the Warriors. Still, his days as a star are done. By contrast, Steph Curry is still a superstar for that team.
Could the Warriors help him by moving Paul?
Why The Golden State Warriors Do The Deal
The Warriors could use some frontcourt depth. Draymond Green is suspended indefinitely. Meanwhile, the Warriors needed frontcourt depth even before he was out.
They’re getting some here. Batum feels like a perfect addition to this roster He’s a high-feel player who can space the floor and defend.
This is exactly the type of player who should thrive in Steve Kerr’s motion system. Meanwhile, Morris is a bruiser who can absorb some heat on Green’s behalf.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Chris Paul, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
The Warriors are giving up the best offensive player in this deal, but they’re getting depth where they need it. They’re also taking back two expiring contracts – that should appeal to this increasingly expensive team.
Should the Sixers take Paul’s deal back?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
Sure. After all, Paul only has one extra year on his deal. In all likelihood, that will be the last year of his career. This is not a significant commitment on the Sixers’ part.
For that matter, expiring deals are typically easy to move. That’s part of the plan for the Sixers here. They get to keep the assets that they landed for Harden and kick the can on using them.
In the meantime, they can find a use for Paul. He’s still a solid playmaker who spaces the floor. Moreover, the Sixers have a lead ball-handler in Tyrese Maxey.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Chris Paul, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers Updates
Adding Paul to a core featuring him and Joel Embiid should make the Sixers (even more) serious contenders. Believe it or not, they may not need a star.
