News broke Saturday night that Philadelphia 76ers center Jahlil Okafor told teammates that the Sixers are actively looking to trade him and he expects to be moved here soon (more on that here).
That initial report was followed up with a whole host of other information, among them the possibility that Philadelphia might hold Okafor out the next two games prior to the All-Star Break as they continue to engage in talks with other teams.
There's a chance that Okafor could sit out the final two games prior to the all-star break due to ongoing trade talks.
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) February 12, 2017
Okafor did not suit up in Saturday’s win over the Miami Heat. He was not injured. Instead, it was all about the Sixers protecting their investment.
Also important to note here, Philadelphia reportedly informed Okafor that it is currently having ongoing discussions with four teams about moving him.
Source: Jahlil Okafor was informed that the 76ers have had trade talks with the Bulls, Pelicans, Blazers and Nuggets. Discussions ongoing.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) February 12, 2017
It’s interesting that the Lakers, long considered suitors for the Duke product, are not listed here.
As it relates to the teams Philadelphia has talked to, it’s not a surprise that the New Orleans Pelicans are included. The two sides have in the recent past discussed Okafor in a trade. Philly is said to be targeting Jrue Holiday in any deal involving the center.