The Philadelphia 76ers are still hoping to make one or more major splashes this offseason, and they may have plenty of incentive to offer a respectable trade package for Kawhi Leonard.
For starters, the Sixers were expected to meet with LeBron James’ representatives on Sunday, and one of their main talking points will reportedly be that they feel they have a “real chance” to acquire Leonard. Sticking with that theme, ESPN’s Ian Begley was told there are people with the 76ers who believe Leonard could be convinced to sign with Philly long-term.
On the Sixers and a potential trade for Kawhi Leonard, it’s worth noting that there are several people with Philadelphia who feel confident that Leonard would strongly consider re-signing there next summer if they traded for him.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) July 1, 2018
Leonard clearly wants out of San Antonio, but he can make life difficult for the Spurs by refusing to sign long-term with any team but the Los Angeles Lakers. If Leonard tells a team like the Sixers that there’s no chance he would sign an extension with them next summer, there’s little incentive to give up assets for the star forward.
Of course, someone is probably going to have to make the first move. Leonard might be more likely to sign long-term with the Sixers if they sign LeBron, and LeBron would probably be more likely to sign with Philly if they land Leonard.
The Los Angeles Lakers still look like the favorite to sign LeBron, and they can also sell him on the idea of playing with Leonard and another star free agent they are pursuing. It won’t be long before the first domino falls.
