The Philadelphia 76ers made waves last season when youth and talent came to the discussion. This year, the team looks to capitalize and rebuild their roster with a potential superstar in the mix.
Sources including ESPN's Trading Machine is looking on possibility getting star point guard John Wall of the Washington Wizards in exchange for up and coming big man Jahlil Okafor. The NBA trade rumors suggest that this trade will also include Phoenix Suns' PG Brandon Knight, making it a three-team deal. In return, Phoenix (2-6) will receive 2017 and 2019 first round draft picks.
Should the deal push through, John Wall, who averages 21.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, 9.6 assists and close to 3 steals this season will ignite the winless 76ers in the backcourt with his trademark offensive play and leadership? This will set current starting point guard Sergio Rodriguez as the backup alongside second year man TJ McConnel and veteran Jerryd Bayless, while mainstays Nerlens Noel and Joel Embiid will continue to attack and protect the shaded lane.
Jahlil Okafor meanwhile will provide a steady presence in the paint for the Wizards (1-5) together with Marcin Gortat and Ian Mahinmi. Although his stats dipped to 11 points and 4 rebounds this season, he and Knight (11.5 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 3.0 APG) should work well in the rotation and will provide the much-needed scoring boost.
Wall came into the limelight as one of the central figures in the Wizards' first five. His flashy moves, consistent scoring and the ability to deliver in crunch time made him an instant crowd favorite. There are, however, rumors that he and fellow guard Bradley Beal tend "to dislike each other on the court." With his contract expiring after the '18-'19 season, Wall will most likely ask for a trade.
There's no official word coming from the teams, but the trade looks good on paper. Not that much as Kevin Durant going to Golden State, but new faces in upsurging teams will do them a whole good.
