The Philadelphia 76ers could explore a blockbuster sign-and-trade deal involving upcoming sophomore Jahlil Okafor for Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal, according to the latest NBA trade rumors.
The 76ers have been reportedly gauging the trade market for their young big men as the team attempts to become contenders in the league again.
With the 76ers possibly selecting LSU's Ben Simmons as No. 1 first overall in this year's draft, and the possibility of Dario Saric finally coming to Philly, the team would have little room for plenty of big men, making Okafor, along with Nerlens Noel, the potential odd man out, according to ESPN's Marc Stein and Chad Ford. One possible move suggested by SportsGrid writer Jake O'Donnell is a sign-and-trade package that would send Okafor to the Wizards for Beal, who becomes a restricted free agent this summer.
"Beal isn't exactly married to the Wizards and will be looking for a big payday as this summer's best available young shooting guard - and the Sixers have the cap space to overpay him," O'Donnell wrote.
Beal would strongly fit as the team's top shooting guard, with the 76ers in dire need of shooters to bolster their young inexperienced lineup. Despite playing only 55 games this season, Beal had the best year of his career in terms of production, averaging 17.4 points and 3.4 rebounds per game.
Beal has been adamant about seeking a max contract from the Wizards this summer, although his injury-riddled season could affect Washington's decision. Nevertheless, the Wizards have the space to offer Beal a max deal and explore a sign-and-trade that would acquire them a young talented center to replace an aging Nene.
Okafor, on the other hand, could give the Wizards a scoring big man, who could be partnered with All-Star point guard John Wall. However, the Duke product, who averaged 17.5 points and 7.0 rebounds in his rookie season with the 76ers, still needs improvement on the defensive end, although the Wizards could fill that void by signing defensive big men in free agency.
The Wizards are expected to offer Beal a max contract once the summer market opens, and while it is unlikely they trade Beal for Okafor, anything can happen in the offseason trade frenzy.