Evaluating a Possible Al Horford to Sacramento Trade

Projected Trade:

Philadelphia 76ers Trade: Al Horford, Shake Milton, 2020 OKC First, 2020 Atlanta Second

Sacramento Kings Trade: Buddy Hield, Alex Len

Keep in mind; this trade would not be completed until the offseason, when Buddy Hield’s 4 yr 94M extensions kicks in. No matter what, the 76ers will have to give up more than they get back because of how bad Horford’s contract is on the salary table.  

Why the Kings Do This:

While Richaun Holmes had an excellent season this year, it’s clear that Sacramento could use an upgrade at center. During the first 12 years of his career, Horford played center, up until this season. Big Al’s natural position is at the center spot. He’ll also work as a nice mentor piece to Marvin Bagley III. Bagley has a lot of potential, but injuries have slowed him down in his first two NBA seasons. 

Shake Milton was able to take advantage of the opportunity to play in February, showing off his shooting ability. Sacramento has shown they are more committed to Bogdan Bogdanovic at shooting guard for the future as they benched Hield in January. While Milton isn’t as consistent as a scorer, he’ll be able to replace Hield as a shooter off the bench. 

If the NBA season does not return, the Oklahoma City Thunder pick would currently go to the 76ers at # 21. There’s still a lot of value in having an additional first-round selection, while far from a lottery pick. Additionally, the Hawks 2020 second has some value as it will be a high second-round pick. Overall, while Horford’s contract is terrible, the team doesn’t seem too committed to Buddy, despite giving him an extension. Acquiring a solid center who can mentor Marvin Bagley, while also obtaining a good shooter and draft picks, should be intriguing for the Kings.   

Why The 76ers Do This:

The 76ers have struggled to live up to expectations this year. That’s due in large part to two reasons: their lack of shooting and their lack of spacing. Getting rid of Horford and acquiring Buddy Hield helps solve both problems. Hield is one of the best pure shooters in the NBA, connecting on 41.1% of his career attempts. He would work as a replacement for JJ Redick, whom the 76ers have sorely missed this year. 

If Philadelphia completes this deal, this is what their lineup could look like:

PG: Ben Simmons

SG: Josh Richardson

SF: Buddy Hield

PF: Tobias Harris

C: Joel Embiid

In terms of spacing and shooting, this lineup would fit together much more effectively than their current group. 

Alex Len likely wouldn’t have much of an impact on the 76ers. His contract has to be added to the trade for it to be possible. While the Sixers do lose their only first-round pick for 2020, I think this trade would be worth it for them. Moving on from Horford’s contract will help them down the road, while Buddy Hield will be able to contribute as a shooter right away. It will be interesting to see if Elton Brand can move on from Horford in free agency. 

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