6 Centers Sixers Could Consider Ahead of NBA Trade Deadline
The 2023 NBA trade deadline is one week away. Unlike last year, the Philadelphia 76ers aren’t star-hunting in an attempt to trade away a disgruntled All-Star of their own. Instead, the Sixers seem destined to make a small move or two before the time is up.
At this point, it’s clear the Sixers’ biggest need might be a backup center once again. As Montrezl Harrell and Paul Reed have yet to convince Doc Rivers that one guy is more deserving of the backup role than the other, the Sixers might be in the market for a potential replacement or third big to possibly offer a different look.
Here, we’ll look at a handful of rostered centers that could be an option for the Sixers as the trade market heats up before it closes next week.
What do the Sixers Need?
The Sixers’ current duo of backup centers includes two players that bring value to different departments. Harrell is who the Sixers look to utilize in offensive situations — especially when James Harden is on the court because he seems to trust the former Sixth Man of the Year more. Reed is good for defense and rebounding.
One thing both of those guys lack is size, which is something Doc Rivers tends to point to a lot when discussing the Sixers’ weaknesses as a whole when the seven-footer Joel Embiid is off the floor. Ideally, the Sixers grab a big with the prototypical size of a traditional center, who is reliable in the rebounding department, and decent in rim protection.
Now, on to the prospects…
Andre Drummond, Bulls
Is there smoke? Yes
NBA Insider Marc Stein told his readers, “do not be surprised” if the Bulls move Andre Drummond ahead of the deadline. We’ve already seen what Drummond looks like in a Sixers uniform, as he appeared in 49 games with them last season before getting sent to Brooklyn. With the Sixers, Drummond averaged six points on the offensive end and collected nine rebounds per game.
Some would argue and say that Drummond was the best backup that Embiid has ever had. I also have to note that Drummond did not want to leave Philadelphia. Catching up with the big man back in early January, Drummond made it clear that he wanted to see last season through in a Sixers uniform. Maybe they can get him back and make things right again.
Tony Bradley, Bulls
Is there smoke? No
While we’re discussing bigs from the Bulls that used to play for the Sixers, I’ll bring up Tony Bradley, who had a short-lived stint on the Sixers in 2020-2021. Unlike Drummond, Bradley isn’t a name that seems to be on Chicago’s trade block, but he’s out of their rotation currently. Bradley certainly isn’t of the same caliber as Drummond, but he could be a last resort. During the 17 games he played in Philly, Bradley averaged five rebounds in 20 games. He collected offensive boards 14 percent of the time (92 percentile) and defensive boards 24 percent of the time (85 percentile), according to Cleaning the Glass. His effective field goal percentage on offense was 70 percent. Although the number dipped to 59 percent in Chicago last season, it’s right in the ballpark of Philly’s current bigs.
Nerlens Noel, Pistons
Is there smoke? Yes
As the Pistons remain in the midst of a rebuild, Noel seems like a likely trade chip for Detroit, especially since he’s not playing much lately. As an offensive rebounder, Noel has been reliable over the years. Being a rim-protector on the defensive end of the floor is where he’s thrived and has continued to do so during the 134 minutes he played for the Pistons this season. He hasn’t been as reliable on offense since the 2020-2021 season he spent with the Knicks, but the Sixers could be a team that helps Noel get back on track in that department.
Jaxson Hayes, Pelicans
Is there smoke? Yes
Pelicans center Jaxson Hayes has not lived up to the early days of his pro career, where many thought he was bubbling into something bigger than what he’s become. After averaging 20 minutes on the court last season, Hayes is spending just 14 minutes per game on the court in 29 games this year. With those minutes, Hayes has put up five points per game while averaging three rebounds per game. Hayes could be a decent young offensive addition to the Sixers, but his lack of experience might not be right for the role the Sixers need. It doesn't hurt to inquire, though.
Willy Hernangomez, Pelicans
Is there smoke? Sort of
It doesn’t seem like the Pelicans are actively shopping Hernangomez, but other Eastern Conference teams are reportedly keeping an eye on his availability. If the Pelicans are looking to get rid of Hayes, then keeping Hernangomez is a logical move. But if Willy is the one who joins the block, he could be an option for Philadelphia. Spending 13 minutes on the court per game in 26 outings, Hernangomez has averaged seven points and five rebounds. While he’s not incredibly efficient in the scoring department, Hernangomez could bring size and ideal rebounding.
Richaun Holmes, Kings
Is there smoke? Yes
Matisse Thyublle is a name the Kings are reportedly monitoring. Richaun Holmes is a player the Kings are rumored to be shopping around. Offensively, Holmes would be a solid addition. He’s also been a decent rim protector dating back to his early days as a reserve for the 76ers. While Holmes’ salary is more on the expensive side compared to the other prospects mentioned, as he’s on a four-year, $46 million deal that runs through 2025, he’ll have to be a name to keep an eye on if the Kings are making a pursuit for Thybulle.
Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.
