Stephen Curry of Golden State Warriors and Dillon Brooks of Memphis Grizzlies (Image via Getty) The Philadelphia 76ers could soon be looking for a way out of one of the NBA’s worst contracts. After handing 35-year-old Paul George a massive four-year, $211.5 million deal, the Sixers have seen their gamble backfire. Now, a trade proposal suggests sending George to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for a package of role players and a future draft pick.
Why the 76ers Might Move On From Paul George
The 76ers were desperate to strengthen their roster around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Signing George was supposed to be the move that elevated them into championship contention. Instead, the veteran forward played in only half of Philadelphia’s games last season and posted his lowest scoring numbers since 2014-15, averaging just 16.2 points per game while shooting 43% from the field and 35.8% from beyond the arc.With $162 million still remaining on his deal, Philadelphia may want to cut ties before George’s contract completely cripples their flexibility.
The Proposed 76ers-Grizzlies Trade
Sports Illustrated’s Ethen Hutton recently suggested a trade idea that would give the Sixers an opportunity to reset while giving Memphis another veteran presence.
Trade Proposal
Joel Embiid’s knee injury report raises concern ahead of Philadelphia 76ers training camp (Image via Getty)
Philadelphia 76ers ReceiveMemphis Grizzlies Receive Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Paul George Brandon Clarke 2030 second-round pick (via POR) John Konchar Cedric Coward 2028 first-round pick
What Philadelphia Gains
Moving George would be a step back in terms of star power, but the return package could make sense long-term. The Sixers would gain: • Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: A proven three-and-D guard with championship experience. • Brandon Clarke: Provides frontcourt depth and energy off the bench. • John Konchar and Cedric Coward: Affordable role players who add roster depth. • 2028 first-round pick: Gives Philadelphia more draft capital for future moves.As Hutton wrote, “Philadelphia takes a step back from its win-now mentality, shifting its focus to the young core of Edgecombe, Jared McCain and Tyrese Maxey. With a healthy Joel Embiid, this core could elevate the 76ers to a competitive playoff team with cap flexibility across its new four players as opposed to George’s remaining $162 million on his deal.”
What It Means for Memphis
For the Grizzlies, acquiring Paul George would be a gamble but one that could pay off if he manages to stay healthy. Memphis would give up useful rotation pieces and a first-round pick, but George’s scoring and perimeter defense could fit well next to Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Eye $4.15 Million Utah Jazz Star as Veteran Addition for Luka Dončić and LeBron JamesWhile the Sixers would lose a high-profile name, the deal offers them roster depth, financial flexibility, and a draft asset. For the Grizzlies, it represents a high-risk, high-reward move that could either revitalize George’s career or saddle them with the same struggles Philadelphia is looking to escape.