Thanks to a banged up-Joel Embiid fighting through the entire season, the Philadelphia 76ers weren’t in full strength when the faced the New York Knicks in the first round. This offseason, though, there’s belief that the front office will make a move on Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler to improve the roster.
In their series against the Jalen Brunson-led Knicks, the Sixers were able to muster two wins before succumbing to them. Joel Embiid led the team with averages of 33.0 points, 10.8 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game. This year’s Most Improved Player, Tyrese Maxey, came in second with 29.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.8 assists.
On the other hand, New York had All-Star guard Jalen Brunson put up impressive numbers when he posted averages of 35.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game. Five other Knicks players also scored in double-digits, including Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, Donte DiVincenzo, Miles McBride, and Isaiah Hartenstein.
Apart from Kelly Oubre Jr.’s 13.2 points, no other player on Philadelphia’s roster showed up offensively. Their elimination highlighted the need to add more scoring and playmaking around Embiid and Maxey in the offseason. Otherwise, it would be more of the same for the Sixers when the next season starts.
Philadelphia 76ers Projected To Trade For Jimmy Butler If He Doesn’t Get Extension From Miami Heat
Due to Philly’s first round exit, rival teams believe that the Sixers’ front office will make a move on Jimmy Butler to address their roster needs. In an article written by Marc Stein and posted on Real GM:
“If the Heat balk at extending Butler, rival teams believe the Philadelphia 76ers could attempt to swing a trade for the veteran wing. The Sixers project to have more than $60 million in cap space this summer. Daryl Morey will be seeking to fill out the roster around Joel Embiid and re-sign Tyrese Maxey.
Butler previously played for part of one season with the 76ers. Philadelphia acquired Butler from the Minnesota Timberwolves. Following the end of the 2018-19 season, Butler was acquired by the Heat in a sign-and-trade deal with the Sixers,” Real GM posted.
Over the course of 60 games during the regular season, Butler averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.3 steals per contest. However, the Heat star is turning 34 soon and has an extensive history of injuries, two details that can lower Butler’s value in the market.
There will be some time before Butler learns if he’s going to get an extension with Miami or not, and if the Sixers are going to pursue him if it’s the latter. In any case, Philly will surely be major players in the offseason soon.
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