Rumors surrounding Jahlil Okafor and a potential trade from the Philadelphia 76ers have been circulating for the better part of the past calendar year.
Now, with the trade deadline itself less than two weeks away, it looks like Okafor himself expects to be dealt.
Hearing that Jahlil Okafor has told teammates he anticipates being traded soon.
— Jake Pavorsky (@JakePavorsky) February 12, 2017
The No. 3 overall pick from Duke back in 2015, Okafor simply hasn’t fit in too well with Philadelphia. He’s averaging just 11.6 points and 4.8 rebounds in 23 minutes of action per game as a sophomore. This has led to speculation that the Sixers might not get a huge bounty in return.
But in reality, the team’s surplus of talent in the front line will likely lead to Okafor being moved. Despite dealing with a minor meniscus tear in his knee, Joel Embiid has been absolutely splendid this season. Meanwhile, the team expects to get rookie No. 1 pick Ben Simmons back in the mix after the All-Star Break.
The New Orleans Pelicans and Boston Celtics have both been bandied about as potential destinations for the 21-year-old center. It will be interesting to see what develops between now and the deadline in February 23rd.