[Jones] The Clippers picks owned by Philly are not untouchable: “With Harden gone, what if the Sixers called and offered them back George and that 2028 first-rounder for Kawhi Leonard? That’s a move that gives the Sixers a clear upgrade and would instantly help them compete for a championship.”
So if George isn’t going out, any contracts the Sixers could deal are much smaller. Sixth man Quentin Grimes, playing on a qualifying offer, makes a little less than $9 million. There is at least a decent chance he walks in unrestricted free agency this summer, but he also has a no-trade clause. Kelly Oubre Jr. has emerged as a trusted starter, and he’s more important on the wings with George ineligible to play until late March.
This makes striking a deal more difficult, though the Sixers do have a few premium assets. They own an unprotected 2028 first-round pick from the Los Angeles Clippers from the deal that sent James Harden, who is now back east with the Cleveland Cavaliers, out west. The Sixers also own the rights to swap picks with the Clippers in 2029.
Those picks aren’t untouchable, but they should be very difficult for Philadelphia to give up. There are fun NBA2K-type scenarios that could be discussed. With Harden gone from the Clippers, what if the Sixers called and offered them back George and that 2028 first-rounder for Kawhi Leonard? That’s a move that gives the Sixers a clear upgrade and would instantly help them compete for a championship.