Furkan Korkmaz wants out of Philadelphia. The former 26th pick reportedly wants to be traded from the Sixers because of a lack of playing time. Through two seasons, he’s only managed to play 5.6 minutes per game. After the Sixers declined his $2.03 million third year option, they might be inclined to grant his trade request. If they do, here are some potential deals that they could make:
Sixers and Wizards shake things up
Philadelphia 76ers receive: Austin Rivers
Washington Wizards receive : Jerryd Bayless, Furkan Korkmaz, 2020 2nd round pick
The Washington Wizards are off to a disastrous 2-7 start. They’re hoping Dwight Howard could be the missing piece that helps the team come together. However, Dwight Howard is, well, Dwight Howard. While he puts up decent stats, he’s known to be a cancer in the locker room. If the Wizards decide to shake things up and try to blow up their roster, which they should’ve done over the off-season, Furkan Korkmaz and a future second round pick in exchange for a guard with an expiring contract wouldn’t be a bad start.
The Sixers would acquire Austin Rivers, who is capable of creating his own shot and knocking down some jumpers. He would be a perfect fit for a team deprived of shot creators. Although he is off to a bit of a slow start, a change of scenery could work wonders for him. Plus, he’s on the final year of his contract. If he doesn’t work out, they don’t have to worry since he’ll come off the books after this season. It’s a win-win.
The end of the T.J. McConnell era
Philadelphia 76ers receive: Terrence Ross, 2019 second round pick
Orlando Magic receive: T.J. McConnell, Jerryd Bayless, Furkan Korkmaz
While Terrence Ross isn’t exactly a “ shot creator” per say, he can still get you some buckets. Ross is still a serviceable wing who’s 6’7 frame allows him to stick with bigger players that some of the Sixers guards can’t. He might be generating 12 points per game on lackluster efficiency but playing in a system that routinely looks for shooters and gives them good opportunities could benefit him. Plus, his $10.5 million dollar contract is off the books after this season, which will allow the Sixers to continue “star hunting” next offseason.
The Magic are in dire need of some playmakers and guards who are capable of creating for others. McConnell could instantly provide that for them as a starter or backup to D.J. Augustin. They’ll also have a free look at Korkmaz, who could give them the wing scoring that they were looking for from Mario Hezonja.
Sixers and Kings shuffle their decks
Philadelphia 76ers receive: Iman Shumpert
Sacramento Kings receive: Jerryd Bayless, Furkan Korkmaz, 2019 second round pick (protected 31-45)
The Kings are willing to take on bad contracts in exchange for young talent or draft picks. In this case, they’d get both. Korkmaz could be given some minutes in David Joerger’s crazy fast paced system and show off his scoring chops. We’ve seen glimpses of it in the past (ex: 40 point Summer League game). Playing with other young guys who are still figuring it out, Korkmaz could really shine with the Kings, especially with Bogdan Bogdanovic expected to miss some time.
Shumpert would be a welcoming addition to the Sixers team. As someone who has playoff experience and is averaging 9.1 points in a nice start to the season, Shumpert would give the Sixers a 3-and-D wing who can come off the bench behind Robert Covington. Shumpert would have no problem sliding into the Sixers rotation, who still lack two-way guys who can produce come playoff time.
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
