The Philadelphia 76ers' 2025-26 season came to a crushing end over the weekend, as they suffered a 30-point loss that completed a four-game sweep at the hands of the New York Knicks in the NBA playoffs semifinals. Being thoroughly outplayed by their I-95 rivals has sent a clear signal: big changes are coming this summer.
The first move came Tuesday, when the 76ers parted ways with president of basketball operations Daryl Morey. While the team would entertain offers for Joel Embiid and the $186 million remaining on his contract, a deal for the star center remains highly unlikely. However, the same may not hold true for fellow veteran Paul George, who—like Embiid—comes with a hefty price tag and an injury history.
According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the nine-time All-Star "has somewhat rehabilitated his trade value around the NBA." The possibility of George opting out of the final year of his contract in 2028 and signing a longer-term deal at a lower annual average could make him an attractive target for several teams this offseason. With that in mind, let's explore four potential trade partners for the 76ers as they look to reshape their roster.
Sacramento Kings
The Kings have their own overpaid, injury-prone swingman in Zach LaVine. At 31, the two-time All-Star has played 50 or more games just once in the last three seasons. Assuming LaVine picks up his player option for next season, Philadelphia would take him on to see what a lineup featuring Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe could look like. For Sacramento, the risk is real—George is older—but he would be a much better fit alongside Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan if those two remain on the roster next season.
Chicago Bulls
In any deal, the 76ers will likely need to take back a bad contract. One option: sending George to the Chicago Bulls for forward Patrick Williams. Williams has three years left on his deal, but for a total less than what George makes in a single season. This would give Philadelphia far more cap flexibility both short- and long-term, especially if they plan to extend Maxey soon. For the Bulls, a healthy George would make them significantly better and could help them compete more immediately in the Eastern Conference.