The NBA has seen its fair share of blockbuster drama, but few have captured the imagination of fans and pundits like the ongoing saga involving Joel Embiid, James Harden, and the Philadelphia 76ers. Recent developments have added even more intrigue to this drama, with Joel Embiid, the Sixers’ franchise player, removing any mention of Philadelphia from his Twitter bio.
Could this be the golden opportunity the Brooklyn Nets have been waiting for? In this article, we’ll dissect the situation and explore how the Nets could turn this fiasco to their advantage and potentially acquire Joel Embiid.
The Fiasco in Philly
Before delving into the potential trade scenario, it’s crucial to understand the turmoil brewing in Philadelphia. The Sixers were all in on their “Process,” which led them to draft and develop stars like Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid.
However, despite their individual brilliance, the team has yet to secure an NBA championship. The recent playoff disappointments have raised questions about the team’s future, leading to speculation about a major shakeup.
Joel Embiid’s Twitter Move
Joel Embiid’s decision to remove Philadelphia from his Twitter bio sent shockwaves through the NBA community. While it’s important not to read too much into social media activity, it’s hard to ignore the symbolism. Embiid, the heart and soul of the Sixers, distancing himself from the franchise suggests that he might be open to a change of scenery.
Acquiring Joel Embiid, one of the league’s premier defenders and a dominant force in the paint, could transform the Nets into an even more formidable contender.
Could the Brooklyn Nets afford Joel Embiid’s Massive Contract?
A major obstacle in any potential trade scenario is the financial aspect. Joel Embiid’s contract with the Sixers is significant, and the Nets will need to navigate this carefully. Joel Embiid is signed through until the 2026-27 season at nearly $51 Million per year, his contract is a considerable commitment for any team. However, the Nets, who are known for their aggressive pursuit of championships, might be willing to take this financial leap for a player of Embiid’s caliber.
The Ben Simmons Conundrum for the Nets
Joel Embiid appreciation post. Reminder that he’s the best center in franchise history. He’s also my favorite player/athlete ever, and he always will be! pic.twitter.com/t0kK8PsBxG
— Aidan LaPorta (@aidanlaporta69) August 28, 2023
One key factor to consider is the future of Ben Simmons. While the Nets could use his talent, it’s unlikely that he would want to play for the Sixers after the recent drama. This makes it challenging to include him in any potential trade package, as he might not be a desirable asset for Philadelphia.
Promoting Mikal Bridges and Asset-Trade
To sweeten the deal, the Nets could promote Mikal Bridges, a talented young player, to a more prominent role within their roster. Additionally, they could offer trade assets like Cameron Johnson, Nic Claxton, and Spencer Dinwiddie to sweeten the pot for the Sixers. These assets, along with future draft picks, could be the key to convincing Philadelphia to part ways with Embiid.
