Joel Embiid Trade Rumor: Knicks Eyeing MVP in Potential Blockbuster Deal
Posted on: October 27, 2023, 10:12h. | Last updated on: October 27, 2023, 10:12h.
The New York Knicks are reportedly exploring a potential trade for Philadelphia 76ers’ star Joel Embiid. Although Embiid has not requested a trade, the Knicks are willing to offer a package that includes three starters and multiple first-round draft picks.
According to sources, the Knicks are open to trading power forward Julius Randle, swingman R.J. Barrett, center Mitchell Robinson, and/or backup shooting guard Evan Fournier to acquire Embiid. Additionally, the Knicks have multiple first-round draft picks available for negotiation.
“The Knicks are willing to offer a package that includes three key players,” reported Keith Pompey from the Philadelphia Inquirer. “A trio from that group would be paired with two or three first-round picks.”
This trade rumor has sparked interest among fans and beat reporters prior to the start of the new NBA season. While some are skeptical about the possibility of Embiid joining the Knicks, the timing of the rumor adds intrigue to the situation.
Harden Drama Continues for 76ers
The negotiations for a potential Embiid trade could be prolonged due to the reputation of 76ers’ general manager Daryl Morey. Morey is known for taking his time to finalize trades, which often frustrates other teams’ general managers. If a trade with the Knicks or any team is to happen, it is likely to occur closer to the trade deadline in February 2024.
After parting ways with Ben Simmons, the 76ers acquired James Harden in a trade with the Brooklyn Nets in 2022. However, despite Harden’s addition, the 76ers have been eliminated in the second round of the playoffs in the last two seasons.
Morey and Harden have had a well-documented feud, with Harden even publicly calling Morey a liar. Morey attempted to trade Harden but received no satisfactory offers. Harden has recently been absent from preseason games and is not expected to play for the 76ers until next week.
Knicks’ Pursuit of Star Players
Ever since being snubbed by Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving in favor of the Brooklyn Nets in 2019, the New York Knicks have been on a quest to acquire a high-profile star. The Knicks have accumulated multiple first-round draft picks and have expressed interest in trading these assets for established All-Stars.
In the past, the Knicks targeted Donovan Mitchell and Damian Lillard, but both players ended up with other teams. However, with Embiid expressing a desire to win a championship, the Knicks saw an opportunity to pursue the talented center. Another potential trade target for the Knicks is Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
76ers and Knicks in the Futures Market
In terms of betting odds, the Boston Celtics are currently favored to win the Atlantic Division at -350 with the 76ers (+400), Knicks (+1100), Toronto Raptors (+4000), and Brooklyn Nets (+6000) following behind.
Regarding the Eastern Conference, the Celtics (+180) and Bucks (+190) have the highest odds, while the 76ers (+750) and Knicks (+2000) are also in contention. For the NBA Championship, the 76ers are considered the eighth favorite at +1900.
Lastly, the win totals for this season are set at 47.5 over/under for the 76ers and 45.5 o/u for the Knicks. Both teams had successful seasons in the previous year, securing playoff berths and making it to the second round.