A report recently surfaced that Thaddeus Young has asked the 76ers for a trade. Young promptly denied the rumor (see story) and proceeded to go on probably the finest four-game tear of his NBA career.
There might be the assumption that Young is showcasing himself so that a deal gets done. In fact, some seem to think Young, along with veterans Evan Turner (restricted free agent-to-be) and Spencer Hawes (unrestricted free agent-to-be) are as good as gone anyway.
It is, of course, the job of team president and general manager Sam Hinkie to decide if that happens. In the meantime, I would postulate a housecleaning that includes any or all of the above named players is not a foregone conclusion. Furthermore, I might even advocate keeping one, two or all of them.
Let’s start with Young. If you’re trying to create a winning culture, Young is certainly a good guy to have around. He’s a blue-collar worker who plays both ends of the floor and never complains no matter what he’s asked to do by his coach. Isn’t that what you’re trying to instill in the rest of your players?
Turner is a much sought-after commodity in the NBA, a player who can create his own shot and at the same time fill the stat sheet. If his renewal comes at the right price, it’s something the Sixers might want to consider.
Coming into Sunday's game in Los Angeles against the Lakers, Hawes had accomplished something only Tim Duncan had done -- averaging at least 14 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.5 blocks per game. Plus, Hawes has the added ability to stretch the floor with his outside shooting, something that is also coveted by NBA teams. Again, if the price is right, why not hold onto him?
Finally, consider that all three bring two other assets to your team. They’re all veterans, which is something you’ll need to mix in if you’re rebuilding with youth (even with them, the Sixers had the NBA’s youngest roster on opening night). At the same time, Young, Hawes and Turner are all just 25 years old, leaving them with plenty of good basketball in front of them.
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Michael Carter-Williams seems to have all the makings of a future star. Nerlens Noel is an athletic big man who may one day have an impact. Also, this summer the Sixers hold two potential lottery picks in one of the best drafts in years, and money under the salary cap, even with potential financial commitments to Hawes and Turner.
What moves could they make trading any combination of Young, Hawes and/or Turner that could improve that situation?