Nerlens Noel (Photo : NBAE via Getty Images)
The Washington Wizards may consider trading for Nerlens Noel to address the team's need of a defensive center.
Noel has been consistently thrown at the rumor mill, with the 76ers yet to address their crowded frontcourt. While many expect Jahlil Okafor as the likely odd man out in Philadelphia, Noel has also emerged as candidate to be dealt in the foreseeable future.
According to Lucas Johnson of The Sixers Sense, a fan site hosted by Sports Illustrated, the Washington Wizards could emerge as a potential destination for Noel if the 76ers decide to trade him. Johnson believes it would be wise for the Wizards to find a young big man to partner with John Wall and Bradley Beal, and Noel fits the mold.
"...with John Wall and Bradley Beal both in their mid-20s it would be wise of the wizards to find a young big to run with these two guards. The other pro of the Wizards trade for Noel would be he would be able to grow with the duo of guards Washington has," Johnson wrote.
However, as Johnson noted, the Wizards do not have the necessary pieces to orchestrate a trade for Noel should they become interested in acquiring the 22-year-old center. Which means a third team could be involved in any potential deal.
One possible trade scenario both teams may explore is including the Cleveland Cavaliers in a three-way trade Johnson suggested. A deal that works on ESPN's trade machine would see the 76ers sending Noel to the Wizards, while acquiring Otto Porter Jr. from the Wizards. The Cavs then receive Marcin Gortat, while Washington also gets Iman Shumpert from Cleveland.
Adding Porter would give the 76ers a versatile wing to complement the team's core of young talents led by Ben Simmons. Porter, who averaged 11.6 points and 5.2 rebounds last season, could fit well as a perimeter threat for the 76ers.
Meanwhile, the Cavs are in need of a legit center to improve their current roster and help in defending their championship. While the Cavs were able to add Chris Andersen this summer, it is unlikely the Birdman help contribute inside the paint. Gortat, who averaged 13.5 points and 9.9 rebounds for the Wizards last season, could help establish an offensive presence inside the paint for the Cavs, someone they may consider to catch up with the Spurs and Warriors.
While it remains to be seen whether all the mentioned teams would have interest on such trade scenario, this type of deal would serve them well in balancing their lineup.
