Sixers' Joel Embiid and Hornets' Cody Zeller is a potential trade scenario. (Photo : Reuters)
The Philadelphia Sixers' 2014 third overall selection Joel Embiid had just undergone his second right foot surgery in as many years earlier this month and it was reported that he would miss what is supposed to be his first two NBA seasons.
A CT scan of the broken navicular bone in his right foot that was surgically repaired last year showed "less healing than anticipated" and so the second operation had to be made, as reported by ESPN.
The former Kansas standout's career continues to be on hold and the patience of the Sixers' management on the seven-foot Cameroonian seems to be waning as he was reportedly on the trading block since last season's trade deadline, as per SB Nation.
While speculations abound that Embiid is still being dangled up to this day, there were no reported takers for the talented young center.
According to the ESPN NBA Trade Machine, one possible scenario for the Sixers would be to swap Embiid for the Charlotte Hornets' 22-year-old 2013 fourth overall pick Cody Zeller and two future draft picks (likely second rounders).
When it comes to the complications of the salary cap and luxury tax threshold, the trade is said to be successful for both teams as shown by the simulation.
But in terms of pure skill and talent, the deal might look like a disadvantage for Philadelphia even with Embiid's condition as of the moment. Or is it?
Embiid at 21 years old is still very young and has a ton of potential once he gets past this second huge career setback. As soon as he regains his health, the Hornets could partner him with Al Jefferson up front, with the latter going back to his natural and more comfortable power forward position, something that Zeller was not able to provide for Big Al.
Meanwhile, the Sixers already has two young and equally promising centers in its roster, 2015 third overall pick Jahlil Okafor and 2014 sixth overall selection Nerlens Noel. Adding another young frontcourt player like Zeller, who is more guaranteed to play than Embiid, will not hurt the team at all.
It should be noted that even with all of Embiid's talent and potential, he will always be a gamble for any team he is with. If the Hornets are willing to take the risk, then this trade should be a go.
