The Sixers have been longing for stability all season when it comes to the Point-Guard position and it’s been reported that they may have finally taken a step in the right direction…by taking a step back in time.
Per reports, Christmas has come early for the Sixers who have signed Ish Smith from the Pelicans in exchange for two second round draft picks. The story was broken by Marc Stein of ESPN and it appears that the team are releasing Tony Wroten to make way for the return of Ish Smith.
The trade comes as quite a surprise..to both parties. Smith was reported as demanding quite a large contract this off-season prior to his release so unless the Sixers have re-signed him for less it looks as though it’s damage limitation. Having said that, the Sixers have a huge amount of money to play with when it comes to the salary cap.
The Pelicans however are where things become interesting. Per NBA.com, the team have an Offensive rating of 105.1 when Smith is on the court compared to the 101.3 when he’s off it..a significant difference.
In 27 games for New Orleans Smith has shot .430 from the field and .303 from beyond the ark. His Turnovers have also come down from the 69 last year to just 45 after two more games..a crucial statistic for the Sixers. 154 assists is where he really shines though as Smith will look to finally become the established PG that Philadelphia needs.
Bringing him back is surely the easiest question the organization has had to answer..especially for two future second rounders. It’s cheap, cheerful, someone who understands the teams mentality and at 27 has the ability to lead the team. He knows the players, the city and after another good year so far could well be the perfect short term solution.
