As the trade deadline approaches, the underachieving Sixers team has a lot to think about in regard to upgrading their roster. Philadelphia’s three stars haven’t even played double-digit games together this season, but there is obvious tinkering that needs to be done. Without rookie Jared McCain, there are growing concerns about the depth and effectiveness of the guard rotation outside of Tyrese Maxey.
Aging Vets
The Sixers resigned Kyle Lowry this offseason after getting him in the buyout market last season. He helped contribute last season but was relied on a little too much as a player in his late thirties. He obviously has a great relationship with head coach Nick Nurse, but he hasn’t performed well at all this season.
Lowry is averaging just 4.6 points, 2.8 assists, and 1.9 rebounds per game this season His shooting percentages have also dipped, with a field goal percentage of 36.7% and a three-point shooting percentage of 35.6%.
Philly signed Reggie Jackson this offseason, who is currently 34 years old and has had an underwhelming season overall, although he has played better in recent appearances. Jackson is averaging 3.7 points per game, but he hasn’t gotten consistent playing time. While both Lowry and Jackson bring valuable experience and leadership, their physical limitations are becoming more apparent as the season progresses.
Injection of youth
This team needs an injection of youth at the guard position to provide solid minutes off the bench or when sharing the court with Maxey. The team could look internally and give Jeff Dowtin another opportunity to contribute or address the concern in the trade market as the NBA trade deadline approaches. It is an obvious need that Daryl Morey has to address. Otherwise, they will again be relying on aging guards to help handle the ball and play defense in the NBA playoffs if they can salvage the season.
Some potential trade targets could include Alec Burks (Miami Heat), Ayo Dosunmu (Chicago Bulls), Davion Mitchell (Toronto Raptors), Tyus Jones (Phoenix Suns), and Jose Alvarado (New Orleans Pelicans). These players could be available and wouldn’t cost the Sixers many of their assets or players to get a deal done.
Morey usually waits until the deadline to make any moves, but he may need to start making changes earlier. Every game counts for this team, who found themselves in a 3-14 hole to start this season and now hopes to keep its championship aspirations alive at 13-19.
