NBA trade deadline: Sixers make no moves, show restraint by keeping roster intact
They had been targeting Memphis guard Tyreke Evans, among others, but the Grizzlies were pursuing a first-round pick in exchange for the Chester native.
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Thursday's 3 p.m. trade deadline passed without the 76ers making any changes to their roster.
The team had been in the market for bench scoring and perimeter shooting, but for the right price. One player they had targeted was Memphis guard Tyreke Evans. The Grizzlies, however, wanted a first-round pick in exchange for the 28-year-old Chester native. The thought was that Evans, who has an expiring contract, would help the Sixers secure their first postseason berth since 2012.
There was a report that the Sixers turned down the Grizzlies' inquiries of power forward Dario Saric in a potential trade for Evans. Sources, though, have said that report wasn't true.
Los Angeles Clippers guard Lou Williams was another solid potential trade target heading into the week. But Williams, originally drafted by the Sixers, signed a three-year contract extension on Wednesday to remain with the Clippers.
The Sixers ultimately didn't make any moves because the front office feels pretty good about the current roster and the easy remaining schedule. They will look at the buyout market for an opportunity to add a player.
By doing that, the Sixers, who have an open roster spot, will keep their primary assets intact to go after an A-list free agent in July.
The team has the Eastern Conference's eighth best record at 26-25, and has the easiest remaining schedule in the NBA, according to Teamrankings.com. The top eight teams in each conference at the conclusion of the regular season advance to the postseason.
As coach Brett Brown pointed out, the Sixers are healthier than they have been at any point this season. Joel Embiid is finally playing on back-to-back nights. The all-star center had missed a total of 10 games due to not playing in back-to-backs and assorted minor ailments. JJ Redick returned on Jan. 31 after missing seven games with a fracture in the fibula head of his left knee. The shooting guard has missed 11 games this season.
The Sixers think they can make a strong playoff push with a healthy Redick and Embiid in the lineup each game.