Since the start of the Joel Embiid era, the Philadelphia 76ers have struggled to have an adequate backup center behind him.
What has made it harder—especially this season—is that because Embiid is an injury risk, the Sixers have had to depend on their backups more than they’re accustomed to.
Bringing back Andre Drummond was a sensible choice because both sides were familiar with one another. However, he has not been the placeholder he was in his first go-round with the Sixers.
In 14 games with the Sixers, Drummond’s field goal percentage has not been impressive as a center (51%), and he doesn’t block shots at the same rate he once did—0.5 blocks this season compared to 0.9 in his first stint in which he played fewer minutes.
It could be worse, but the Sixers could use an upgrade. Embiid is dealing with another injury, so having a dependable backup and a center who can fill in for Embiid could help turn the Sixers’ season around.
One who fits that bill is Washington Wizards' Jonas Valanciunas. Valciunas has plenty of experience as a starter, has better touch around the rim, and averages more blocks than Drummond (0.8) in fewer minutes per game.
Since he’s owed $9.9 million this season, he is certainly attainable for the Sixers since they haven’t crossed the NBA’s tax aprons.
Valanciunas is available via trade
Surprising no one in the NBA, the Wizards have made Valanciunas available in trade talks. Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer confirmed this, saying, “Jonas Valanciunas is definitely available for trade in Washington."
Since the Wizards are in the same place as the Sixers at 2-12 (except the former was supposed to be bad), Valanciunas’ trade availability was inevitable.
The Sixers have been frostbitten with the injury bug, and that’s never been more apparent than with Embiid. As far as emergency starting centers that can be had via trade go, Valanciunas is probably the best they can find.
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