The Philadelphia Sixers Need to Trade Guerschon Yabusele Before NBA's Trade Deadline
The Sixers' season hasn't been their best, with star players like Joel Embiid and Paul George dealing with injuries and underperforming. Even Tyrese Maxey's shooting efficiency has taken a hit. While rookie guard Jared McCain and Guerschon Yabusele started the season promisingly, McCain's torn meniscus and George's underwhelming performance have left a void.
Yabusele, a minimum-salary signing, has been the team's saving grace. Playing for the Sixers after a standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, he's averaging career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, and leads the team in three-point percentage. If the Sixers were in a better position, Yabusele would be an invaluable asset acquired on a shoestring budget.
But with their title hopes dwindling, the Sixers might consider trading Yabusele by the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline. Although they can re-sign him using non-Bird rights, they'd only be able to offer him around $2.85 million. To offer him more, they'd need to clear salary cap space, which could be challenging given their three max contracts.
If they do trade Yabusele, they could acquire assets and then potentially re-sign him using the taxpayer mid-level exception, making it a win-win situation. The trade market for minimum contract players like Yabusele is more favorable after the new collective bargaining agreement, with teams like the Phoenix Suns, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Boston Celtics interested.
However, if the Sixers believe they can retain Yabusele using non-Bird rights, they might choose to keep him. With the taxpayer mid-level exception, they could offer him a significant contract beyond this season, provided he's amenable to a pay cut. But if the Sixers are unsure about retaining him, trading him might be a better option.
If the Sixers decide to trade Yabusele, they could potentially get a second-round pick in return, which would be a good return given his potential departure this offseason. But if he and the Sixers are both interested in continuing their partnership, re-signing him could be their best option.
Despite Yabusele's significant contributions to the team, the Sixers' business strategy might press them to explore sports money opportunities. Trading Yabusele could bring in valuable assets, allowing them to strengthen their team financially and potentially re-sign him later using the taxpayer mid-level exception.
