Jahlil Okafor finds himself in an uncanny situation with the Philadelphia 76ers, especially with other young stars healthy. Similar to last NBA season, he is likely to battle for playing time against Joel Embiid. Could it be time to trade the 6-foot-11 center?
To recall, Okafor was linked to a possible trade with the Chicago Bulls before the February NBA trade deadline. Now, the scenario for both Chicago and Philly has changed considerably.
The Bulls are in rebuilding mode while the Sixers have most of the injured stars back in action for the 2017-18 NBA season.
Will more minutes bring out the best in Jahlil?
Okafor was projected to be the top pick in the 2015 NBA Draft. However, the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Los Angeles Lakers opted to get Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell respectively.
Apparently, there were concerns about the 21-year-old’s ability to protect the rim. Okafor does possess the offensive talent, but at his height, most teams want a player who can help on both ends of the floor.
He could improve on that with guidance, and more playing time though that is unlikely to happen in Philly.
The Bulls could utilize him better if a deal comes to fruition according to ESPN’s Zach Lowe.
Numbers crunch
The Bulls have gotten rid of the high-priced veteran players, the last of which was Jimmy Butler (sent to the Minnesota Timberwolves). If the Bulls and Sixers talk, a potential deal would involve Okafor and probably Robin Lopez.
According to Spotrac, Okafor is due to earn $4.9 million this coming season. Next year, he holds a manageable $6.3 million contract which the Sixers (or future teams) can exercise.
The numbers crunch involving Okafor is better compared to Lopez. The 29-year-old is due $13.8 this coming season and $14 million for the 2018-19 season. The Bulls can get plenty of savings in the deal which may require additional assets to consummate.
Okafor will eventually be traded
For Okafor, the fact is that he will be eventually traded. The only question right now is where. The Bulls loom as a credible destination but so do other teams who are looking to invest in a young star.
The former Duke standout has slowly matured after a colorful rookie season. He came into training camp in great shape and has shown improvement on the defensive end. Though still far from being a potential franchise player, the fact is Okafor yet has plenty of room for development.
The Sixers are unlikely the place to give him that with a large haul of youngsters to mentor. Aside from the Bulls, Okafor could get a call from other teams – even the ones who are vying for the 2017-18 NBA title.