Just a few hours ago, a blockbuster trade took place between two of the most controversial teams in the NBA today – the Brooklyn Nets and the Philadelphia 76ers. Brooklyn agreed to a deal that will ship All-Star guard James Harden and veteran forward Paul Millsap to the Sixers. And finally, after a long and winding road of the Ben Simmons Saga in Philly, the organization finally agreed to trade Ben Simmons to Brooklyn, together with Seth Curry, Andre Drummond, and two future first-round picks.
This season, Ben Simmons has not played a single game and has never taken part in training camps and team practices. The whole Sixers organization grew impatient with Simmons attitude. While it was already clear that Ben already wants out of Philly, the management, especially Daryl Morey (Sixers President of Basketball Operations) held on to Simmons to make him a possible trade asset.
Morey, who also previously worked for the Houston Rockets, was obviously interested in James Harden (who was also a previous Rockets player). After all the rumors, the trade pushed through and both the Nets and Sixers roster has changed significantly. But who actually won the trade? Let’s find out.
What’s in Store for the Nets?
Lately, the Nets have been struggling after Kevin Durant fell to another season-ending injury and Kyrie Irving was only able to play in some games due to health and safety protocols. They have lost their last ten games and are now down to the 8th seed. Even after the latest trade, even if Ben Simmons decides to show up now, the team will have to change their strategy and form a bond and team chemistry between their new players.
But what does the future hold for the Nets? Brooklyn is a scary team if they are healthy and when complete. A facilitator and defensive-minded point guard in Ben Simmons, a flashy guard who can score at will in Kyrie, and an emphatic scorer in Kevin Durant, mixed with some of the most talented role players (e.g. Seth Curry, LaMarcus Aldrige, and Patty Mills).
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Are the Sixers a championship contender now?
With the addition of another star in James Harden, the Sixers are trying to go for a successful playoff run. They are currently holding the 5th seed (32-22), just three (3) games behind Milwaukee Bucks. Everyone knows how great The Beard was during his Rockets days. If he is able to replicate his performance in Philly, the possibilities are endless. Together with the superstar big man, Joel Embiid, the sixers are looking pretty good.
Who really won the deal?
Since the season almost ending, both of these teams do not have enough time to create strong team chemistry. As of now, the Sixers could push for a strong playoff performance and could beat stronger teams in the east. Brooklyn Nets, on the other hand, is still looking a bit lost in translation. We could see the complete result next season if both teams could stay healthy.
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