The Philadelphia 76ers are realizing that it is not that easy to trade away young talent. The team is attempting to stock up on draft picks for the future and as the losses continue to pile up, they are selling players. The team is expected to make at least one move before the upcoming trade deadline, but they are running out of time to get something they desire in return.
Spencer Hawes is one of at least three 76ers on the market. The forward is having a career-best season despite the recent blowouts suffered by Philadelphia. He is averaging highs in both rebounds per game and shooting percentage, making him a solid asset for any team looking for size and shooting. However, Philadelphia has placed a large price tag on all available players making any move difficult.
According to ESPN and Bleacher Report, Philadelphia is unwilling to accept anything less than a first-round draft pick for Hawes. That is an issue considering Hawes is coming off two terrible performances. Against the Clippers, he did not score a single point for 22 minutes while going 0-8 from the field. The very next game he put up just six points, going 3-10 from the field. Those type of stats have teams reluctant to give up draft compensation for Hawes.
If Philadelphia really does intend on trading the forward, they have to lower the price tag. The 76ers could easily look towards young players that can develop over time rather than simply targeting draft picks. Yahoo Sports brings up the example of the JJ Redick trade where the Magic received Tobias Harris who has since been averaging 17.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. If Philadelphia does proper scouting, they could get a deal like that.
According to Jake Fischer of the Boston Globe, the Portland Trail Blazers could be interested in Hawes. The team showed some interest back in December. With Joel Freeland recently injured, the team could become an option again. The Blazers were riding high back in December, but have since fallen off. Hawes could help the team get back on track.
The Dallas Morning News reports the Mavericks could begin to show interest if the 76ers lower the asking price. The Mavericks have stressed they plan on remaining quiet during the trade deadline, but the team is need of some depth behind Dirk Nowitzki and DeJuan Blair. Will they make a move? The Morning News does not confirm any ongoing negotiations between the two sides, but if Hawes can come at a better price, anything can happen.
