DONE DEAL: Philadelphia Option $160 Million on a shocking deal
The Philadelphia 76ers have several options available due to their cap flexibility, allowing them to consider backup plans as needed. One potential option mentioned is Jerami Grant, a former Sixer. ESPN’s Zach Lowe discussed Grant as one of the alternatives the team might explore.
Lowe noted, “I’m sure they’ve got plans D, E, and F. People have whispered Brandon Ingram, people have whispered Jerami Grant. Neither of those are as exciting to me as Paul George. I don’t know what the hell is gonna happen here, but we’re gonna get some clarity there on Saturday,” during the June 27 episode of “The Lowe Post.”
Regarding Grant, who will enter the second year of a five-year, $160 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, Lowe did not delve into specifics about a potential trade. Although not an All-Star, Grant has averaged over 20 points per game in three of the last four seasons and is noted for his strong wing defense.
While the Sixers already boast significant scoring from Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, Grant could provide additional scoring and address various team needs. Despite his high salary, acquiring Grant could potentially elevate the Sixers’ playoff performance to new heights.
Trail Blazers Have ‘High Bar’ for Jerami Grant Trade
If Jerami Grant becomes available, acquiring him appears likely to require a substantial trade package. Matt Moore from The Action Network reported on June 27 that the Portland Trail Blazers have set a high asking price for Grant.
Moore mentioned, “One player mentioned as a target for the Mavericks is Blazers forward Jerami Grant, but Portland continues to maintain a high bar for the return.”
In the same article, Moore also discussed the Philadelphia 76ers’ stance on various players like Paul George, Klay Thompson, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. He indicated that Thompson and Caldwell-Pope are serious considerations, while George’s preference to remain on the West Coast diminished Philly’s interest.
If the Sixers manage to acquire Grant along with one of the top free agents in 2024, it could mark a successful offseason for Philadelphia, contrasting with a less favorable one in 2023.
Jerami Grant Started NBA Career With Sixers
Re-acquiring Jerami Grant could hold sentimental value for the Philadelphia 76ers, who originally drafted him in the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft. He played for the team from 2014 to 2016 before being traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Grant’s breakout season came in 2018-19 with the Thunder, where he averaged 13.6 points per game while shooting nearly 50% from the field and 40% from three-point range in 80 games. Since then, he has continued to improve his game.
While not an All-Star, Grant has demonstrated his value, notably helping the Denver Nuggets reach the Western Conference Finals in 2020. Placing him in a similar role with the Sixers could enhance their playoff competitiveness.
Given the Portland Trail Blazers’ current rebuilding phase, acquiring Grant might not align with their long-term plans. This situation could present an opportune moment for the Sixers to pursue a bid for him, potentially bolstering their roster significantly.