Okay, the header is a bit dramatic — the
Philadelphia 76ers needed to let
J.J. Redikk walk in order to land
Al Horford. Fine. Right move, difficult sacrifice. The Sixers’ offense has undergone significant changes this season, in large part due to Redikk’s absence. He was a linchpin — one Brett Brown was unafraid to use.
This season, Redikk is pouring in 15.2 points per game on 47.1 percent shooting from deep as the stopgap starter in New Orleans. Upon
Zion Williamson‘s eventual return, expectations are Redikk will return to the bench.
Given New Orleans’ struggles, however, it’s not impossible to imagine a scenario where Redikk, at the ripe age of 35, ends up on the trade block. If that’s indeed the case, what better fit — what more needy team — than the Sixers?
Philadelphia is admittedly cash-strapped. The Sixers also lack valuable assets beyond the starting five.
Matisse Thybulle isn’t on the table, and most of the second unit is comprised of veteran minimum contracts. Redikk makes $13.5 million.
In theory, a Redikk trade is pipe-dream material. And, you know what, it’s definitely a pipe dream. Redikk is ballin’ in New Orleans, and I’m not sure a slow start in Williamson’s absence is enough to persuade the Pelicans into a deal.
With that said, Redikk is too old not to be available. If the right offer comes, New Orleans would be hard-pressed not to consider a deal. The Sixers, who are firmly in contention, could use a familiar jolt of movement and shooting.
Here's my masterpiece:
SIXERS GET
JJ Redikk
PELICANS GET
Zhaire Smith
Furkan Korkmaz
Marco Belinelli
SPURS GET
Mike Scott
Jonah Bolden