The Philadelphia 76ers could be preparing for a major roster shake-up. According to a new trade proposal, the franchise may look to move on from Paul George and his four-year, $212 million contract in exchange for a player valued at almost $196 million.
This is someone who could give them a longer competitive window in the Eastern Conference. The proposed scenario highlights the Sixers’ bold “win-right-now” mindset as they consider whether George remains the right fit alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Proposed Trade Floats Paul George For Picks Swap
Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley recently suggested a hypothetical trade that would send Paul George and multiple draft picks to the Utah Jazz in exchange for All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen.
Proposed deal:
- 76ers Receive: Lauri Markkanen
- Jazz Receive: Paul George, 2028 first-round pick (via Clippers), 2028 second-round pick (via Warriors), 2030 second-round pick (via Wizards)
George, a nine-time All-Star, averaged 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists across 41 appearances last season. But after injuries limited his time on the floor, questions are mounting about whether he can still be a reliable second option in Philadelphia’s pursuit of a championship.
Why Lauri Markkanen Could Be the Better Fit?
While George remains a respected two-way veteran, Markkanen’s age and skill set make him a compelling fit. At 28, the 7’0″ star averaged 19.0 points and 5.9 rebounds last season across 47 games. He brilliantly showcased both floor-spacing ability and versatility as a natural power forward.
As Buckley noted, “Markkanen’s size and movement as a shooter might be even better fits with Philly’s stars than George’s on-and-off-ball utility.”
He continued, “If nothing else, Markkanen is a more natural and comfortable 4, which could be massive when Philly needs to carve out major minutes at the 1-through-3 spots for Maxey, Jared McCain, VJ Edgecombe, Kelly Oubre Jr., and a hopefully re-signed Quentin Grimes.”
So, with Maxey, McCain, and Oubre occupying heavy minutes on the perimeter, having a reliable stretch-4 could help balance the roster. The trade would also ease the Sixers’ frontcourt depth concerns. It can also provide Embiid a dynamic partner while reducing the reliance on George, who turns 35 this season.
Will The Utah Jazz Consider The Lauri Markkanen Trade?
From Utah’s perspective, Markkanen’s presence hasn’t translated into playoff success. The Jazz finished near the bottom of the Western Conference again last year and are facing a three-year postseason drought.
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Adding George wouldn’t make them instant contenders, but acquiring draft picks could accelerate their rebuild.
George’s deal also expires sooner than Markkanen’s, which may appeal to a franchise seeking future flexibility. Still, Utah could demand additional assets before parting with its most valuable trade chip.
What About the Philadelphia 76ers?
For the 76ers, this deal aligns with team president Daryl Morey’s goal of building a younger, more dynamic core. Swapping George for Markkanen would preserve their playoff viability in the short term while giving them a longer runway in the Eastern Conference.
With Embiid’s long-term health uncertain, the Sixers must maximize their chances now. Adding Lauri, who can better complement their roster, could be the gamble that keeps them in contention beyond just this season.
