Can the 76ers really add LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard?

It’s been reported that the Philadelphia 76ers have big plans for this offseason — trading for Kawhi Leonard and signing LeBron James.

When Golden State signed Kevin Durant in July 2016, many players around the NBA, as well as fans, wondered how would the league recover from what seemed like a parity-killing move. The plan would eventually reveal itself to be the same as always — reloaded with stars and further develop talent.

The 76ers have ascended by developing talents like Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. They also swayed veteran perimeter sniper J.J. Redick from the Clippers in free agency last summer. But after a disappointing second-round exit to the Celtics, the 76ers know their evolution must continue. That means the other piece of the puzzle — adding stars. How could they do that? Now, according to Philly.com, they’re attempting to land both Kawhi Leonard and LeBron James in an offseason coup.

"The Sixers can’t publicly say so until July 1, but it doesn’t take an engineering degree to realize the team is prepared to do whatever it takes to sign James, a four-time league MVP. Oklahoma City small forward Paul George is another free agent the Sixers have interest in, according to folks around the league. He would be a great fit because of his ability to shoot the ball and defend.Don’t be surprised if they also try to acquire San Antonio Spurs small forward Kawhi Leonard in a trade.  Sources have said the Sixers have expressed interest in the two-time all-star."

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Leonard will be eligible for a super-max contract extension with the San Antonio Spurs set at five-years, $219 million dollars. With Leonard’s turmoil that plagued the Spurs season, the 76ers have a fighting chance. Leonard could be enticed with reuniting with his former assistant coach in San Antonio, 76ers head coach Brett Brown. While landing both James and Leonard is a long shot, this is why we shoot our shot.