NBA Rumors: NY Knicks eyeing trade for Joel Embiid
With recent reports of James Harden planning to reunite with the Houston Rockets this offseason, the 76ers would be at a crossroads as an organization.
Daryl Morey stated during his latest media availability that “Scenario A would be to bring James back. Scenario B, if he’s not back, we’ll have to get creative”. If Harden truly walks away from Joel Embiid and the 76ers, the team could find themselves in a very difficult situation.
They wouldn’t have the cap space to replace him with another star and the Sixers would have to get creative to try to maximize Embiid’s prime and this roster. Other teams around the league paying close attention to what is happening in Philadelphia and reportedly, the New York Knicks have eyes on Joel Embiid.
Embiid to the Big Apple?
Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News has “been told since midseason that Joel Embiid is the guy to watch for the Knicks, and Philly’s playoff flameout only intensified that belief.“ The Knicks have their eyes on Joel Embiid if the league MVP decides he doesn’t want to be in Philadelphia anymore. Leon Rose, who is now the President of the New York Knicks, was Embiid’s former agent. That link between Rose and Embiid has always had Knicks fans wondering if he could ever get the big fella to headline Madison Square Garden.
Staying Put
What could the Sixers do to keep teams like the New York Knicks from calling about their MVP center? They need to try to retain James Harden if he’s willing to sign at less than a max contract. They also need to continue to build around the strengths and weaknesses of Joel Embiid to make the roster compliment him as best as possible.
James Harden is aging, and the current MVP still needs to be the focal point of this team. They also need to consider him when making coaching decisions and trades. Most organizations ask for input from their stars on major decisions. In order for him to feel like he is being taken care of by the Sixers, he needs to at least be aware of moves before they happen. Expect the front office to do their best in any scenario to keep Embiid happy and not searching elsewhere for a better situation.
AP Photo/Charles Krupa
