When Joel Embiid was set for knee surgery after tearing a ligament in his knee, the biggest question for the Philadelphia 76ers pointed to how they’d replace the NBA’s reigning MVP. Yet, with the NBA trade deadline still not past at the time of Embiid’s injury, the 76ers had plenty of time to find a short-term solution.
Related: NBA MVP race
Yet, for whatever reason, the trade deadline came and went, and the Sixers didn’t make a significant addition to their frontcourt. However, 76ers president Daryl Morey reportedly tried making a notable move to help make up for Embiid’s absence.
Chicago Bulls backed out of Philadelphia 76ers’ trade for Andre Drummond
According to Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype, the Philadelphia 76ers agreed to a trade for Andre Drummond, but the Chicago Bulls pulled out of discussions just hours before the Feb. 8 deadline.
The Bulls reportedly were asking for three second-round picks in exchange for the two-time All-Star, and he was believed to be available ahead of the deadline.
Whether it was renewed confidence in their ability to compete or just a lack of an offer that blew them away, the Bulls held onto Drummond, but it’s not because other teams didn’t have interest. Sources state the Lakers, Suns, and Rockets all inquired about Drummond’s availability too.
Drummond is set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but the Bulls are also still on track for the Play-In Tournament, giving him a chance to play meaningful minutes for a contender.
