NBA Rumors: 76ers’ Hypothetical Trade for Giannis May be Best for Bucks
The Philadelphia 76ers may have the best offer for Milwaukee Bucks All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo ahead of this week’s NBA trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks. Although the 76ers’ rookie VJ Edgecombe was linked to Antetokounmpo, the team has shut down speculation about trading the young player, citing his importance to the team’s future.
According to Marks, the 76ers may decline to discuss Edgecombe in any trade package, given his strong start to the season. However, the team’s GM, Daryl Morey, has a history of chasing after stars and may not turn down the chance to build a contender with Antetokounmpo, Maxey, and Joel Embiid. This combination could lead to the 76ers’ first conference finals since 2001.
Potential Trade Package
A potential trade package that includes Edgecombe, Paul George, a 2028 first-round pick, and a 2030 first-round pick would not only bring Antetokounmpo to the 76ers but also drop the team below the luxury tax and open a roster spot. Additionally, George’s 25-game suspension for violating the anti-drug policy could work in Philadelphia’s favor in its offer to Milwaukee.
As Marks explained, “For Milwaukee, the math of this deal works out to Edgecombe and one pick for Antetokounmpo and then a second pick to take back the two years and $110.7 million on George’s deal that remain after this season.” George’s absence could be a bonus for Milwaukee, which would presumably want to lose as many games as possible over the rest of the season if it trades Antetokounmpo.
76ers Shut Down Edgecombe Trade Talk
The 76ers have shut down any talk of trading Edgecombe, with Sixers reporter Kyle Neubeck stating that a league source completely shot down the idea of trading the rookie in any move, including speculative deals for Giannis. Edgecombe is considered part of the foundation in Philly, along with All-Star Tyrese Maxey.
It’s clear that the 76ers value Edgecombe highly and are unlikely to trade him, even for a player of Antetokounmpo’s caliber. However, as the trade deadline approaches, it will be interesting to see if the team’s stance changes and if a potential trade package can be negotiated.
With the 76ers and Bucks both looking to make moves before the trade deadline, the next few days will be crucial in determining the future of these two teams. Will the 76ers make a move for Antetokounmpo, or will they stick with their current roster? Only time will tell.
