The Philadelphia 76ers, aiming to elevate their position after being knocked out of the playoffs, possess the financial flexibility to make strategic moves. One potential enhancement to their roster could be Mikal Bridges.
In a recent article dated May 9th, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz outlined a trade scenario involving Bridges heading to the Sixers. The proposed trade with the Brooklyn Nets would see the following exchange:
76ers Acquire: Mikal Bridges, Dorian Finney-Smith
Nets Acquire: 2024 first-round pick (No. 16 overall), 2026 first-round pick (the least favorable of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, or Los Angeles Clippers), 2030 first-round pick, along with 2027 and 2028 second-round picks.
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Swartz elaborated on why Bridges is a prime target for the Sixers, stating, “Securing Bridges to complement Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey should be a top priority for Daryl Morey.” He highlighted Bridges’ durability and impressive stats from the season, emphasizing his defensive prowess and three-point shooting as valuable assets for the team.
Additionally, Swartz noted the appeal of adding Finney-Smith to the Sixers’ lineup, describing him as a versatile defender and floor spacer who doesn’t require significant ball possession to contribute effectively.
Bridges is currently under the third year of a four-year, $90 million contract. Although initially drafted by the Sixers in 2018, his rights were traded to the Phoenix Suns.
Sixers Named Among ‘Best Fits’ for Mikal Bridges
The Nets have shown no intention of trading Bridges, but given their underwhelming season, it might be wise for them to leverage his value. Swartz argued that Bridges is not in the optimal situation in Brooklyn, emphasizing that he’s been burdened with excessive offensive responsibilities.
At 27, he would thrive on a team offering more scoring opportunities than in Phoenix, yet without the pressure of being the primary offensive force as he is with the Nets. Complicating matters is the Nets’ lack of clear direction; despite their disappointing 32-50 record, they are hesitant to undergo a rebuild due to their substantial owed draft assets to the Rockets.
Moreover, Swartz suggested that the Sixers could pursue Bridges not only for his skills but also to rectify their past mistake of trading him to Phoenix. He proposed that acquiring Bridges would allow the Sixers to fill a crucial gap between Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
