Report: 76ers Target Lakers’ $48 Million Star Forward to Strengthen Roster

The Philadelphia 76ers have had an impressive offseason and currently have a nearly complete roster. Fans and analysts alike view them as strong Championship contenders, thanks to their formidable Big Three of Paul George, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey. However, one area where the 76ers might be somewhat lacking is at power forward. Caleb Martin, who joined the team this offseason, is expected to take on the starting role at this position. Although Martin has demonstrated his capabilities during his time with the Miami Heat, his performance in the 2023-24 season was not his best, and he may be considered somewhat undersized for a power forward.

Given this potential weakness, the 76ers could look to further strengthen the power forward position in the future. One player who has been mentioned as a top trade target is Jarred Vanderbilt of the Los Angeles Lakers.                       

                                                                                                                                                                                                                  In Bleacher Report’s article “Imagining Every NBA Team’s Top 3 Trade Targets,” Greg Swartz highlighted Vanderbilt as a potential fit for the 76ers. Swartz noted that Vanderbilt is a skilled and versatile defender, capable of guarding both big men and wings, which could provide the defensive support the 76ers need. At 6’8″ and with a reasonable four-year, $48 million contract, Vanderbilt is seen as a valuable asset. Drafted 41st overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, Vanderbilt has played for four teams, including the Lakers, Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Utah Jazz. Despite a slow start to his NBA career, Vanderbilt has grown into a reliable starter, particularly with the Timberwolves and Jazz, and continues to be a steady contributor with the Lakers, averaging 20-25 minutes per game.