NBA Draft Rumors: Philadelphia 76ers eyeing No. 1 & No. 7 picks

Apr 16, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Michael Carter-Williams (1) reacts after a basket by forward Thaddeus Young (21) in the second half of a game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. The 76ers won 100-87. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports /

When former Kansas Jayhawks’ center Joel Embiid had surgery to repair a stress fracture in his right foot, it may have hurt the Philadelphia 76ers more than anyone.

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With Embiid sliding down the boards, it likely took away any real chance the 76ers had to land Embiid’s former Kansas teammate, forward Andrew Wiggins. That’s why the 76ers could be involved in multiple trades Thursday night.

Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders breaks down what the 76ers may be trying accomplish on draft night.

"Much like the Jazz, the 76ers are feeling a little squeamish about the third spot. They too have had eyes for Andrew Wiggins and there was a sense that he would fall to them at three, and then Embiid required foot surgery. The Cavs seem to have zeroed in on Parker or Wiggins if they keep the top pick, leaving the 76ers to catch whatever falls to them at three and it’s believed the Bucks are leaning towards Parker or Exum. Philadelphia wouldn’t be crushed to land Exum; they are very high on him, however if surrendering the 10th pick or a roster player like Thaddeus Young could get them Wiggins they seems open to pulling the trigger.The 76ers have also been linked to a deal with the L.A. Lakers that would net them the seventh pick in exchange for Michael Carter-Williams, Young and two of Philly’s five second round picks. It’s believed the 76ers would also take on the contract of Steve Nash.The logic of the deal, according to sources, is the 76ers trade their third and 10th pick to move up, while landing the seventh pick from the Lakers to walk out of the draft with two top players."

The 76ers are obviously muc more likely to hold on to the pick and moving the Rookie of the Year in point guard Michael Carter-Williams seems odd, but they will be a team to watch.

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