After a disappointing start to his career, Zhaire Smith has been moved to the Detroit Pistons for center Tony Bradley. Bradley was traded on draft night from the Utah Jazz to the Pistons. The 22 year old is known for his size and rebounding ability.

Bradley was the 28th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft and has been a bench contributor for the Jazz the last two seasons, averaging about 12 minutes. In that short span, Tony averaged roughly 5 points and 5 rebounds. He can continue to grow under Embiid and Howard and will be a solid third center option.

Zhaire Smith’s career, while often criticized was not his fault. Initially drafted 16th in 2018, there was negative feedback due to moving on from Mikal Bridges. During his rookie year he suffered a severe allergy that nearly killed him and lost over 20lbs of muscle while recovering.

Smith turned 21 in June and has played 13 games with the 76ers over the two season span, 7 in 2020. With his age and coaching he needs, Zhaire is no longer a fit for Philadelphia.

Behind other players like Tyrese Maxey, Matisse Thybulle, Isaiah Joe, and others there didn’t seem to be much of a shot for him to play. Zhaire now has a chance to grow on the rebuilding Pistons.

The 76ers take on an extra $300,000 in salary which won’t effect their free agency that much. This move makes it clear if they are going after any kind of player in free agency, it will be ball handler.