76ers Trade Rumors: Philly Prioritizing 'High-End' Two-Way Player

Sixers looking for upgrades that produce on both ends

As trade season unofficially begins in the NBA, the Philadelphia 76ers can start their pursuit of upgrades around Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Recent updates have laid out the archetype of player they are prioritizing in the coming weeks. 

On Monday morning, Sam Amick of The Athletic put out a new a column of what he's hearing in the rumor mill. When discussing the Sixers, he cited the team is eyeing a two-way player as opposed to a heavily offensive-minded talent like Chicago Bulls All-Star Zach LaVine. 

"While their focus might have been on an offense-first player like LaVine in the preseason, the unexpected improvement in their post-Harden offense makes it more likely they'll target a high-end two-way player heading into the Feb. 8 trade deadline," Amick wrote. 

When breaking down this specific wording, two players instantly come to mind. The first being Toronto Raptors forward OG Anunoby. He is a player the Sixers have been connected to since the Harden trade and fits this description. 

So far this season, Anunoby is averaging 15.5 PPG and 1.0 SPG while shooting 39% from beyond the arc. From a fit perspective, he is someone who can take on big-name perimeter defensive assignments while still being a threat on the offensive end. 

Another player who could fit this description is Cleveland Cavaliers All-Star Donovan Mitchell. Following some recent injuries to their key players, the explosive guard could end up becoming available. Mitchell has played in 21 games this year and is posting averages of 27.3 PPG, 5.8 RPG, and 5.5 APG. 

Between bringing in a defensive-minded coach in Nick Nurse and hard-nosed veterans like Patrick Beverley, the Sixers have built an identity on defense. It's evident they are not willing to stray away from this as they seek possible upgrades before the playoff push. 

Mitchell and Anunoby can both be considered high-end two-way players. If they do end up becoming available, Daryl Morey is sure to heavily pursue both avenues.