Two first-round draft picks weren’t enough for Sixers’ GM Sam Hinkie.
In a shocking move Thursday afternoon, Philly took part in a four-team blockbuster trade that sent Michael Carter-Williams to the Bucks in a deal that netted the Sixers the Lakers first rounder (protected if it’s a top-five choice). Carter-Williams is the fifth player in NBA history to win the Rookie of Year Award in one season and be traded in the next — Chris Webber (1994-95).
MCW was taken a little off guard, as he tweeted:“I can’t lie I’m shocked. I love this city thank you for everything. I can honestly say I gave it my all. I wish Philly nothing but the best” The details of the trade came out just as the 3 p.m. deadline had passed, but a second trade was reported to also have been completed. This one sends reserve forward K.J. McDaniels to the Rockets in exchange for Isaiah Canaan and a second-round pick. Earlier in the day, Hinkie made a sly move to acquire JaVale McGee and a first round pick (protected if it’s in the top 18) from the Nuggets.
The 76ers don’t part with any real assets in the deal, but essentially get a free draft pick to take on McGee’s salary. It is expected that he will be waived by Philly.
The Sixers could have as many as four first-round picks, with nearly a half-dozen second rounders in the 2015 NBA Draft in June.
A bevy of other last-minute deals took place in the NBA Thursday afternoon.
76ers trade Michael Carter-Williams, K.J. McDaniels in frenzied afternoon
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