The rumor mill is in full swing after Blake Griffin’s shocking trade to Detroit got the drama started.
A reliable source, ESPN’s insider Marc Stein, says that the Sixers could be interested in a blockbuster move for Grizzlies forward Tyreke Evans.
The Sixers have expressed trade interest in Tyreke Evans, according to league sources, but Memphis continues to seek a first-round pick in an Evans deal and Philly is naturally reluctant to surrender it
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) January 31, 2018
Would the Sixers part with a first rounder? Their trade assets this year mostly include having talented young players (like Dario Saric) and expiring contracts. But they do have next year’s first round L.A. pick (if it falls No. 1 or outside of the 4-5 range) and their own first rounder as well as three second rounders. The ingredients could be there to pull the trigger.
Evans, a 28-year-old, grew up outside of Philadelphia in Chester but didn’t go to college here — instead playing for Memphis and taking them on a deep NCAA Tournament run.
As a pro, picked fourth overall by the Kings, he was NBA Rookie of the Year in 2010. This year in Memphis he’s averaging 19 points, five assists and five rebounds per game.
His length and size fits in with the Sixers’ make up, and his ability to score could make him the kind of veteran the team needs to ascend the playoff ladder. He also has NBA experience, the kind that would serve Philly well.
Due to recent injury issues he signed a one-year deal worth just $3.3 million. He may need to agree to an extension to make his trade to Philly worth it long term.
He has not played more than 46 games since 2014.
