Even though Keon Ellis is among the Los Angeles Lakers trade targets, in this scenario, he would be moving to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for Andre Drummond and two second-round picks.
Compared to last season, the Philadelphia 76ers seem capable of making their mark in the Eastern Conference playoffs, especially if Joel Embiid and Paul George are in good physical condition at that point in the season.
In recent years, Philadelphia has used the trade deadline to fall below the luxury tax threshold while remaining competitive.
With their contracts nearing an end, Andre Drummond and Kelly Oubre are the primary candidates to provide the team with financial flexibility via trade.
Then there are Kyle Lowry and Eric Gordon, two league veterans who are not finding space in Nick Nurse's rotation.
But what additions could truly bolster the roster for a deep playoff run?
Even though Keon Ellis is among the Lakers trade targets, Philadelphia could also pursue the Kings' 3-and-D wing.
Credit ZUMAPRESS.com - Scanpix
Keon Ellis to 76ers trade idea
The 26-year-old guard has a contract worth just over $2 million expiring soon, is an excellent perimeter defender, and is a competent 3-point shooter.
Given Sacramento's recent struggles, another roster shake-up appears imminent. Consequently, Ellis might be available for a relatively low price. Philadelphia still has future picks that could come in handy in such a scenario.
Philadelphia 76ers receive
Keon Ellis
Sacramento Kings receive
Andre Drummond
2027 second-round pick
2028 second-round pick
Why this makes sense for the Sixers
For Philadelphia, given Jared McCain's difficulties, adding another versatile outside player like Keon Ellis could be very useful.
He offers a reliable outside shot and the defensive versatility to guard multiple positions.
Although he is not necessarily a very physical player for his position, Ellis could give Nurse an extra option ahead of the playoffs.
Sacrificing a couple of second-round picks and Andre Drummond's expiring contract seems like a reasonable price to pay.
Why this makes sense for the Kings
After building a roster that makes little sense in terms of fit, the Sacramento Kings desperately need to start over and acquire future assets to rebuild the roster.
Ellis' contract is expiring, and although he is a very useful player for Sacramento, it might be wise to cash in on his trade value now and acquire future picks, given that the Kings still risk losing him without getting anything in return in the summer.
Meanwhile, Drummond could make a contribution coming off the bench until the end of the season and then be dumped in the summer.
Orazio Cauchi
Orazio Cauchi started his career in basketball at 21, having worked for several years at Sportando as the lead writer of the website. He also covered several live events, including the Euroleague Final Four, Italian Cups, Serie A league finals, and EuroBasket. He also contributed to American media, such as LibertyBallers and Def Pen Hoops. Cauchi joined BasketNews in 2021 as a Staff Writer. Holds a degree in Politics & International Relations.
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