Furkan Korkmaz requests trade: What it means for the Sixers

Korkmaz
CHICAGO, IL – FEBRUARY 06: Philadelphia 76ers Guard Furkan Korkmaz (30) dribbles the ball in action during a NBA game between the Philadelphia 76ers and the Chicago Bulls on February 6, 2022 at the United Center in Chicago, IL. (Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire)

Furkan Korkmaz has requested a trade from the Sixers

The Philadelphia 76ers are dealing with a second trade request from their 2016 draft class. After Ben Simmons’ unceremonious exit last season (the first overall pick in 2016), Furkan Korkmaz has requested a trade (the 26th overall pick in 2016). The sixth year three-point specialist has requested a trade following a season that saw him fall completely out of the rotation. This is Korkmaz’s second career trade request from the Philadelphia 76ers.

Korkmaz has played only 25 games this year, the second-lowest of his career thus far. In those 25 games, Korkmaz has averaged 10.2 minutes per game, a far cry from his 21.1 minutes last season. He is also putting up 3.8 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 0.7 assists per game, all of which are significantly lower than his statistical averages from the previous three seasons of his career. His shooting splits this year have been a lot better than last year though. While he is only shooting 41.0% from the field, this is a significant increase over his 38.7% last season. His three-point percentage has taken a jump back up as well, going from 28.9% last season to 34.3% this season.

What will the market be like for Furkan Korkmaz?

While Korkmaz isn’t the typical trade request-level of player, he has shown his ability as a three point shooter in this league. In Korkmaz’s last free agency, he garnered interest from the Cleveland Cavaliers before resigning with Philadelphia. He will most likely be included in a trade around the deadline, using his 5 million dollar salary for matching purposes in Philadelphia’s pursuit for a backup big.

While Korkmaz may not have been a top player for Philadelphia, he has been a consistent contributor for years. After 6 years in Philly, it appears its finally time for a change for both Philly and Steph Turkey. For me, at least, I wish Korkmaz the best in his future, and hope he is able to find playing time for another team, and no matter what happens from here, we’ll always have his final seconds game winner against Portland in 2019.

Photo by Melissa Tamez/Icon Sportswire