The NBA trade landscape is shifting after 10-time All-Star James Harden was dealt to the Los Angeles Clippers from the Philadelphia 76ers in a late-night blockbuster trade on Tuesday. The shocking move might open a path for the New York Knicks to acquire reigning MVP Joel Embiid from Philadelphia.
Los Angeles Clippers land James Harden in blockbuster trade
Harden’s departure was a matter of when it would happen rather than if it would happen. The former MVP’s relationship with the 76ers was virtually broken beyond repair, making this the third team in four seasons that Harden has forced his way out of. The conclusion of his 76ers tenure signals a new direction for the franchise, one that could involve the departure of another MVP.
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Could the Knicks make a trade for Joel Embiid?
2023 NBA MVP Joel Embiid has seen his name swirling in trade rumors amidst the James Harden trade saga, with the New York Knicks at the forefront of those rumors. New York has the assets necessary to pull off such a trade, carrying 11 first-round picks through 2030, as well as a plethora of young, attractive players on their roster that could be enticing in a trade.
With the 76ers beginning to fall from the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference, their road to contention infamously dubbed “The Process” could soon come to an end, giving the Knicks a great opportunity to acquire that long-awaited superstar in which Knicks fans have been patiently waiting for.
Acquiring a player of Joel Embiid’s caliber would catapult the Knicks into title contention immediately. A duo of Jalen Brunson and Joel Embiid would become one of the NBA’s best. Embiid’s situation with the 76ers will be something to monitor in the next coming weeks as Philadelphia continues to evaluate the direction they desires to go in moving forward.
