76ers Trade Rumors: Jazz’s Jarred Vanderbilt Linked to Philly

It’s no secret the Philadelphia 76ers are looking for a potential upgrade at the backup center position. In the minutes behind Joel Embiid, the Sixers are currently utilizing Montrezl Harrell and Paul Reed.

While Doc Rivers hoped Reed or Harrell would solidify themselves as the backup center, struggles in different areas for both prospects have made it difficult for Rivers to roll with one or the other consistently.

With the trade deadline approaching, the Sixers have been linked to a couple of potential bigs they could acquire. Minnesota Timberwolves reserve Naz Reid is one popular name the Sixers are rumored to be taking a look at. So is Utah Jazz forward Jarred Vanderbilt.

According to Yahoo Sports,’ Jake Fischer Vanderbilt is among several players from the Jazz who are on the team’s trade block. While there are teams that are looking to potentially bring in Vanderbilt to play power forward, Fischer suggests Vanderbilt could be an option for Philly to join the squad as a backup five.

“Vanderbilt’s name has also appeared amid the trade deadline conversation surrounding reserve big men, most notably with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources told Yahoo Sports. While teams like the Indiana Pacers have viewed the 6-foot-9 Vanderbilt as an attractive option at power forward, Vanderbilt has been described by league personnel as a leading target in Philadelphia’s quest to fortify its frontcourt reserves behind Joel Embiid.”

Vanderbilt started in 41 of the 52 games he appeared in this year. Averaging 24 minutes on the court, he’s put up eight points per game while connecting on 56 percent of his shots. He’s also come down with eight rebounds per game.

Being in the NBA since 2018, Vanderbilt has spent time with three different NBA teams and a handful of organizations in the NBA G League, including the Sixers’ affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats.

While Vanderbilt only appeared in 39 games through his first two seasons in the league, he became a steady role player with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2020-2021. After two seasons in Minnesota, he landed with the Jazz.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.