The Philadelphia 76ers are in a make-or-break offseason following a disappointing season where they went from contender to potential lottery team. At 13th place in the Eastern Conference, there's no way they could enter the 2025 playoffs anytime soon, especially since only seven games remain to conclude the season.

With plenty of time to evaluate and recharge, the Sixers are considering several options to bolster their roster. One option that has picked up steam is trading for Utah Jazz All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen.

Sixers Could Leverage Top Draft Pick

NBA Trade Rumors: 76ers Want to Play Their Cards Right NBA Trade Rumors: 76ers Want to Play Their Cards Right
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Philadelphia is going to get a top-six draft pick in the next NBA Draft. If it's in that range, they can keep it. But if it drops outside the top six, the Thunder gets the pick. The Sixers are left with two options: invest in young guns or trade for a veteran star.

FanSided's Matt John recently proposed a possible deal that would bring Markkanen to the Sixers. With his steady play and floor-stretching capabilities, Markkanen would be a welcome addition to the Sixers' offense.

So far, it's been an impressive season for the Finnish big man. He averages 19 points and 5.9 boards for 2024-2025 season.

Markkanen Trade Could Cost Sixers Paul George

To acquire Lauri Markkanen, the Sixers would have to make more than just their draft selection. One possibility is trading All-Star forward Paul George to the Jazz and pairing him with the Sixers' pick if it is between the No. 5 and No. 6 range. But if the Sixers can acquire a top-four pick, then they would likely retain the selection and instead target a young talent with potential.

Paul George's contract and health are always the main issues in any trade situation. While it's ideal to let him go, his higher salary than Markkanen might discourage Utah from making the deal. Yet, if the Jazz are genuinely interested in rebuilding and getting younger talent, a package of George and a first-round draft pick might provide them with a solid future foundation.

How Can Markkanen Help Philly Get Back on Track

For the Sixers, Markkanen presents several benefits. According to The Sporting News, he's younger and more versatile than George on both sides of the court. His capacity to space the floor and shoot perimeter shots would complement Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

For the 76ers' book, Markkanen is the perfect player for their long-term plan. From here, the rebuilding will continue around him as the main core.

What Risks Should Sixers Expect From a Markkanen Trade?

While Markkanen trade could breathe new life into the Sixers, there is also the risk involved. Trading Paul George means losing a seasoned All-Star, and if expectations from Markkanen are not met, then Philadelphia may end up with poor options.

Besides, holding a top-four draft pick may prove to be a temptation too difficult to resist, particularly if there is a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime talent falling into their hands.