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There is no question that the Philadelphia 76ers are built to contend in the Eastern Conference. Although they lost Jimmy Butler last summer, the re-signed Tobias Harris and fortified the frontcourt by prying Al Horford away from the Boston Celtics. As a result, the Sixers were regarded as one of the top teams in the East during the preseason.
Just like in previous seasons, however, there is a huge reliance on the starting group. The Sixers lack a single player that is averaging double figures in scoring off the bench.
Simultaneously, they lack perimeter shooting threats. Harris and Josh Richardson have really struggled to get in rhythm, and both Horford and Embiid are shooting over four three-pointers per game. That is definitely too high for guys that should control the paint.
Moreover, Furkan Korkmaz is just not reliable at over 20 minutes per game. At least someone like Mike Scott provides a bit of toughness on the defensive side of the ball. Korkmaz has little upside otherwise.
So the Sixers need scoring and shooting off the bench. Remember, general manager Elton Brand has stated his belief that this team can compete for a championship. That means the window is now. The Sixers should be aggressive in pursuing any assets that could set them apart from the rest of the contenders in the East.
One player in particular should be on Philadelphia's radar.
Danilo Gallinari has quietly been one of the better wing scorers. He averaged close to 20 points per game with the Clippers last season, and through the first 15 games of this season Gallo is averaging 18.8 points and 5.1 rebounds while also shooting over 40 percent from beyond the arc.
He was thrown into the Paul George deal as a bit of a sweetener, even though the main piece was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander as well as the hoard of future draft picks acquired by Thunder GM Sam Presti.
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The fact is that the Thunder are 5-10 and unlikely to contend. Gallinari is a free agent at the end o this season. He will almost certainly be moved by the February trade deadline.
So, why not, Philly?
Gallinari is a sniper from deep and he also shares some similarities to Harris in terms of a wing player that can play multiple positions and rebound.
Of course, Gallinari leaves plenty to be desired on the defensive side of the ball. But he should benefit from playing alongside defensive menaces like Embiid, Harris and Horford.
Gallinari can spell both Richardson and Korkmaz of minutes while also providing a more dependable perimeter outlet and added floor spacing for Ben Simmons and Embiid to operate.
The Thunder are going to be sellers at the trade deadline. The Sixers will likely be buyers. Does Philly have the necessary assets to get a deal done? If they are serious about contending this year, then it could be worth it to exchange multiple first-rounders in exchange for Gallinari.
