Philadelphia 76ers: Should Al Horford Be On The Trade Block?
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The Philadelphia 76ers are going through the ups and downs of being labeled a title contender. The offseason brought changes to a roster that was eliminated in the second round for two straight years. One of the new so-called “missing pieces” was Al Horford.
With Joel Embiid out, the 76ers went 6-3. During the month of January, he’s averaged 12.9 points and 7.3 rebounds while shooting 45.3 percent. While the team has played well, fans are still waiting for Horford to explode. Maybe that’s not his game anymore. But then we can see flashes where he can take over the paint and we’re left wondering just how dangerous this team can be when they’re clicking on all cylinders.
But here’s the drawback for the Philadelphia 76ers and Al Horford. It comes down to money.
With the NBA trade deadline approaching, its time for Horford to make a stand. If he continues to slip and the team continues their up and down run, then there is a chance Elton Brand could put Horford on the trade block.
One glaring issue here is that huge contract. Are there any teams willing to bail the 76ers out of the hole they could find themselves in? I double that but it has to be explored. The Horford and Embiid pairing is not working. On paper, the 76ers have a NBA title worthy team. But on the floor, it’s been a bit disappointing.
The record will indicate they’re better than the Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers and others but can they turn it when the bright lights are shining, the clock is winding down and big stop or shot has to be made?
With the recent loss of SG Josh Richardson and Embiid back, it’s time for Horford to show that he can be trusted. The City of Philadelphia is starving for a 76ers parade down Broad St. None of this is possible without Horford. Can he stay consistent?
if he fails, then Horford can still help the team win a championship via trade. The return package the team can get for him can be a massive one. Brand is not concerned about future draft picks. The core of the 76ers is already in place. What they’re looking for now are those missing pieces to win. A few names that come to mind are CJ McCollum of the Blazers, Kevin Love of the Cavaliers, and Zach LaVine of the Bulls?
Each of those teams is looking to unload huge contracts but are they willing to take on another three years of Horford’s contract?
Brown has to make sure that he gives Horford and Embiid enough room for them to coexist in the paint. There should be no team averaging more rebounds than the 76ers, and yet. they’re ranked 11th in the NBA in that department.
Defensively, they’re 2nd in the league but their scoring has them near the bottom of the league (23rd) at 108.4 points per game. Much like with Butler last year, the Philadelphia 76ers playoff success will fall on the shoulders of the new guy and that’s Al Horford. Can he handle the pressure?
If he can’t get it together before the trade deadline, Brand may be forced to cut his losses.
Mark has been covering Sports and Entertainment for the past six years. His work has been featured on Bleacher Report, ESPN, Fox Sports, Teen Vogue, and many other websites.
