Kofi Inkoom
The Philadelphia 76ers are on the hunt for an impactful player to bolster their lineup following their first-round exit in this year’s playoffs against the Knicks. Donovan Mitchell, Zach LaVine, and OG Anunoby are all on their radar for potential acquisitions this summer.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports, if the Sixers miss out on landing a big-time wing player, they could consider pursuing Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls.
“Donovan Mitchell’s upcoming extension talks with Cleveland will loom as large as Paul George’s. Without an extension with the Cavaliers, you can add Philadelphia to any proverbial group of interested suitors in Mitchell’s services, sources said.” Fischer wrote.
Fischer also notes that the Sixers would be interested in a trade for Donovan Mitchell if the All-Star doesn’t sign an extension with the Cleveland Cavaliers this offseason. Another name in consideration is Knicks’ OG Anunoby.
“Striking out on a big-time wing would also leave the door open for Philadelphia to consider taking back a player such as Zach LaVine, sources said, in the event Chicago or another team is willing to attach draft capital to move off salary,” as per Fischer
The Bulls are reportedly looking to trade LaVine this summer after failing to find a taker for him this season. Despite playing just 25 games due to injury, LaVine averaged 19.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.9 assists this season.
On the free agency front, there’s uncertainty surrounding OG Anunoby’s future with the Knicks, as he is expected to consider offers from other teams.
The Sixers previously had interest in acquiring Anunoby from the Toronto Raptors but were unable to secure a deal due to a lack of assets. However, they are likely to pursue him in free agency.
As for Mitchell, he is currently under contract with the Cavaliers for next season but has a player option for the 2025-26 season. The Cavaliers are expected to offer him a max extension, but if he doesn’t sign, they may look to trade him before free agency in 2025.
With Tobias Harris likely departing in free agency, the Sixers will be seeking a suitable replacement to fill his spot on the roster.