Joel Embiid isn’t looking for a trade from the Sixers, obviously, but the level of organizational frustration from yet another failed attempt to make it out of the conference semifinals is high: For five of the past six years, the Sixers have won 50 games (or were on the pace to do so), and lost in the second round.
The Sixers have already fired head coach Doc Rivers and a roster retooling could be coming, starting with guard James Harden’s free agency possibly being moved to a sign-and-trade deal. Forward Tobias Harris, who has been solid in the playoffs (15.3 points, 7.3 rebounds), could also be on the move, as he enters the final year of a cap deal that will pay him nearly $40 million a year next.
Can Embiid land at the Knicks?
“I’d say it’s a pipe dream, but I’m not sure which tube it would come from,” the executive said, with a laugh. “The Knicks have choices, that’s their asset. Philly isn’t looking to give up the league MVP for draft picks. That’s not their mode right now. They are not desperate. He thinks again.”