The Philadelphia 76ers traded a star this year. They didn’t get a star in return. That’s irregular by normal NBA standards. For general manager Daryl Morey, it’s unheard of.
It’s also perfectly acceptable. The Sixers got a better-than-expected return when they sent James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers. They have enough assets to land a star. Now, that’s exactly what they’re expected to do. The Sixers will almost certainly make a major deal before this year’s deadline passes.
Does it have to be for a star? We don’t think so. The Sixers have been solid since that move. They could justify making a move for a star role-player instead. How about Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls?
The Trade Proposal
Chicago Bulls receive: F Robert Covington, 2028 First-Round Pick (LAC via PHI), 2029 First-Round Pick (Swap – PHI)
Philadelphia 76ers receive: G/F Alex Caruso
You may be thinking – isn’t Caruso a star? Congratulations. You’re a major fan of the National Basketball Association. Caruso may be a star to you, but you find a consensus on that.
Ask your mother if she’s heard of Caruso – unless she’s a huge NBA fan as well. She hasn’t heard of him? Now, ask her if she’s heard of LeBron James. She has – that’s because James is a star.
On the other hand, Caruso’s impact on winning is tremendous. If that’s your measure, he’s a star player. Still, he doesn’t fit the typical description of a star that Daryl Morey would chase. Should he make an exception here?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
It’s worth noting that the Sixers already have stars. Joel Embiid is the reigning MVP. Meanwhile, Tyrese Maxey has developed into one of the best guards in the league. Tobias Harris is a viable third option. What do the Sixers need?
Arguably, they could upgrade Harris. That’s one route that they could take. Still, it may be more beneficial for the Sixers to go out and get an elite 3-and-D. If the front office agrees, Caruso would be the perfect acquisition.
After all, he may be the best perimeter defender in the NBA. Caruso is a solid floor spacer as well. This deal should make the Sixers serious title contenders. What does it do for the Bulls?
Why The Chicago Bulls Do The Deal
It’s been rumored that the Bulls don’t want to move Caruso. Allegedly, they feel attached to a player that they developed. Sure – but getting strong value would still justify having developed Caruso.
Realistically, he’s got the most trade value on this roster. Meanwhile, the Bulls have got to rebuild – this team is falling short of expectations for the second consecutive season. If the Bulls are rebuilding, they should trade the player with the highest value on their roster.
This feels like a fair return. The Bulls are getting an unprotected first-round pick and a swap. They’re also getting an expiring contract in Covington. In time, the Bulls could end up using some of these assets to trade for a star.
