Tobias Harris Update: Trade rumors and why he will likely remain in Philadelphia

With NBA free agency set to officially begin tonight at 6 PM, we may have a conclusion on the status of Tobias Harris. Harris has been rumored in trade talks for several weeks now. However, due to Harden opting out and taking less money, the Sixers have been awarded with more wiggle room than initially expected heading into free agency.
Drew Smith dropped a bomb this morning stating that the Philadelphia 76ers have already at the very least, been in discussions with the following players ahead of the official start to free agency. I have seen his sources and there’s definitely good reason to believe that we will have 4-5 guys coming to Philadelphia over the next few days.
- PJ Tucker
- Damion Lee
- Danuel House Jr.
- Otto Porter Jr.
- Andre Drummond
Read More: 4 Free Agents that will sign with the Philadelphia 76ers during free agency >>
Now that we’re all caught up, there are a ton of conflicting reports about what the 76ers plan on doing with Tobias Harris ahead of the deadline. Multiple “beat writers” are saying that the 76ers are actively shopping Harris, which makes sense, while others are saying that Harris will return to Philly.
I would love Harris to be moved, giving the 76ers even more flexibility under the cap. However, I just don’t see any NBA team that is in position to take on the remaining two-years, $76.9 million. That, and the fact that the Sixers probably wouldn’t be getting a player anywhere near as impactful as Harris in a trade. It may not be worth the risk when Harden’s new team-friendly deal will give them enough flexibility to add some much-needed depth, which as we stated above, is exactly what we think will happen.
Tobias Harris Over Last 5 Seasons
In 12 post-season games with the Sixers this year, Tobias averaged 16.9 PPG and 7.6 RPG on 50% from the field and 38.6% from three. The three-point shooting and defensive versatility will be essential for Harris if he wants to remain a vital component of this Sixers team. Harris will go through random spells where he hesitates from beyond the arc. However, Harris did attempt a more encouraging 4.8 threes per game in the playoffs.
You could argue there should be more volume there, and he needs to do a better job boxing out and securing loose balls. That is where the conversation begins for the Sixers potentially trading Harris but again, it doesn’t seem likely.
Mandatory Credit: The Associated Press