Fansided

20 early NBA trades we really want to see

By Ti Windisch

PHOENIX, AZ - OCTOBER 20: Eric Bledsoe #2 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on October 20, 2017 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ - OCTOBER 20: Eric Bledsoe #2 of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers on October 20, 2017 at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Okafor to OKC

76ers Get
Alex Abrines
Thunder Get
Jahlil Okafor

This might not be the most star-studded trade the Oklahoma City Thunder have made recently, but it addresses a very real need in Oklahoma City. The Thunder lack any sort of backup center since trading Enes Kanter to the New York Knicks in the Carmelo Anthony deal.

Sam Presti would doubtlessly do that trade 100 times out of 100 anyway, especially since there is no shortage of big men around the NBA who could replace Kanter. Oklahoma City does need one, though, and Jahlil Okafor is a cost-controlled option.

It’s hard to gauge what Philly will actually demand in return for the former third overall pick. Okafor himself has been vocal with wanting to be moved, and the Sixers seem to want something for him, hence their refusal to come to terms with him on a contract buyout.

Alex Abrines is something. He plays a lot in Oklahoma City, although he’s had a rough start to the year. The Thunder could promote rookie Terrance Ferguson to the rotation to replace him, and then have a more balanced team thanks to the presence of a real center, one who would feast with Russell Westbrook, Paul George and Carmelo Anthony creating space for him down low.

Philly gets a shooter with potential, who is cost-controlled and can help spell Redick and Covington. It’s not a huge need for the Sixers, but Okafor isn’t doing anything right now, so Abrines would help more.

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