76ers Rival Raptors Lose Fred VanVleet in Free Agency

When the Toronto Raptors moved on from their head coach Nick Nurse, all eyes on were on the veteran guard Fred VanVleet, who had a player option looming for the 2023-2024 season.

Parting ways with Nurse was a sign of the start of a potential rebuild in Toronto. Therefore, VanVleet’s departure was potentially in the cards.

Considering the Philadelphia 76ers hired Nurse and were unclear about James Harden’s future with the team, many believed that the 29-year-old Toronto standout could be an option for the Sixers if the Harden situation doesn’t work out.

VanVleet declined his option with the Raptors and hit the free agency market as an unrestricted prospect. While Harden picked up his player option with the Sixers, the team is taking calls for potential trades as the veteran desires another change of scenery.

VanVleet could’ve been a logical replacement for Harden in Philadelphia, considering the connection with Nurse, but it was clear the All-Star ball-handler was going to get a major deal elsewhere. Just a few hours into the opening of free agency on Friday, VanVleet inked the first max contract of the offseason by joining the Houston Rockets.

For the last few weeks, the Rockets were viewed as favorites to land VanVleet after initially showing interest in a reunion with Harden. With VanVleet coming to terms with the Rockets, he leaves behind a seven-year run with the Raptors.

What’s Next for Philadelphia?

Figuring out the Harden situation is key for the Sixers this offseason. While the team’s President of Basketball Operations, Daryl Morey, mentioned that getting Harden back to run the offense for next season is Plan A, it seems that won’t work out at this time.

Multiple teams have been linked to a potential trade with the Sixers, with the Los Angeles Clippers becoming the instant favorite. As Harden reportedly prefers the Clippers as his landing spot, and LA having dialogue with the Sixers recently, there could be a resolution in the works.

However, the Sixers have yet to make a move. After free agency opened on Friday night, the Sixers didn’t add any pieces, even after losing Georges Niang and Shake Milton. Considering a Harden trade could net them several players, resolving that situation will be essential for Philadelphia’s offseason.