Kofi Inkoom
The Philadelphia 76ers are set to have some financial flexibility when the 2024 NBA Offseason begins. They’re eyeing top-notch free agents, but if they miss out, they might opt to utilize their cap space by acquiring a player through a trade. One potential target is Golden State Warrior’s Andrew Wiggins.
In Eric Pincus’s recent report for Bleacher Report, he detailed a three-way trade scenario involving the Sixers, Golden State Warriors, and Portland Trail Blazers, with Wiggins being sent to Philadelphia. Pincus proposed the following deal:
– Sixers receive: Wiggins, along with $1.1 million
– Warriors receive: Malcolm Brogdon and Robert Williams III
– Trail Blazers receive: Kevon Looney, the 16th pick, a $22.5 million Andrew Wiggins Trade Player Exception (TPE), and a $4.4 million Robert Williams III (TPE)
Pincus pointed out the financial appeal of acquiring Wiggins for the Sixers, emphasizing that getting him for just the 16th pick is a steal. He highlighted Wiggins’ relatively reasonable contract compared to what older players like George might demand.
“Taking Wiggins into cap space for just the No. 16 pick is a bargain for Philadelphia. The 29-year-old wing and 2014 No. 1 pick is under contract through 2026-27 for $84.7 million (player option on the final season). That’s a significantly lower price than George (almost 34) will command to stay with the Clippers.”
Furthermore, Pincus suggested that adding Wiggins wouldn’t heavily impact the Sixers’ cap situation, allowing them to pursue other avenues in free agency.
“Assuming the 76ers also keep Paul Reed Jr., Philadelphia would still have about $33.3 million to spend elsewhere (before re-signing Maxey) plus the room mid-level exception (about $8 million). Wiggins would presumably replace Tobias Harris on the roster, and the remaining budget would be used to shop in free agency and/or retain players like Kyle Lowry, Kelly Oubre Jr., Nicolas Batum, Buddy Hield, and De’Anthony Melton.”
Wiggins is currently in the second year of a four-year, $109 million contract. Pincus also noted that Wiggins could be a top choice for the Sixers if Paul George opts to stay with the LA Clippers.
“While it’s believed to be earmarked for Paul George, multiple NBA sources expect George to re-sign with the LA Clippers. With a weak free-agent market, Wiggins may be the best available wing for Philadelphia.”
George holds a player option for the 2024-25 season, adding uncertainty to the Clippers’ roster plans, especially considering their contracts with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.