Sixers Trade Talk: Why this shooting guard is the perfect target to put alongside Tyrese Maxey & Joel Embiid

Whether you think the Sixers need to acquire a “star” level player or not this offseason doesn’t change the fact that they must bring in as many players as possible that fit alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.

I prefer that the Sixers sign a star player rather than trade for one because they would have to surrender draft picks. So, Paul George makes a lot of sense as the primary target this offseason. With that said, free agents could fill out this roster, but they may be better suited to exploring the trade market for that. 

Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls is nearly a perfect fit alongside the Sixer’s two franchise cornerstones. The Bulls have had two consecutive seasons ending with play-in exits and don’t have any direction as a franchise. 

Sixers-Bulls Mock trade

Sixers and Bulls mock trade

Sixers receive
-Alex Caruso

-Bulls receive
-Paul Reed
-2026 1st (via worst of OKC, LAC, or HOU)

Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/BvG51eKolk

— Aidan LaPorta (@AidanLaPorta69) May 7, 2024

Caruso’s reputation as one of the league’s top perimeter defenders is well-deserved. His recent career year, averaging 10.1 points and shooting 40.8 percent from three on nearly five attempts per game, may not immediately stand out. However, his impact on the offensive end extends beyond mere statistics, making him a valuable asset for any team, including the Sixers. 

He’s a very high-IQ player who is excellent at cutting to the basket and even relocating for open threes. He’s a terrific passer who makes quick and instinctive passes in the flow of the offense, which is certainly something that has been lacking on the Sixers roster. 

His actual value will always be on the defensive end of the floor, which is exactly what the Sixers should be looking for in a starting two-guard. There is no better example of Caruso’s need on this team than their series against the New York Knicks, who have arguably the best point guard in the NBA. It’s worth noting that Caruso won the 2024 NBA Hustle Award. 

WATCH: Alex Caruso’s defense highlights

Alex Caruso should be a lock for All-Defensive First Team and on the short list for Defensive Player of the Year

🧵 A thread of stats in case the highlights didn't do it for you ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/wKG9hNNarS

— Will Gottlieb (@Will_Gottlieb) April 10, 2023

Caruso is entering the final year of the four-year deal he signed in the 2021 offseason, worth around $36 million. During this past year’s trade deadline, it was reported that the Bulls “gave a real consideration” to trading Caruso. With Caruso entering the final year of this deal, the Sixers could have the leverage they need to get a better deal for him. The Bulls guard is set to make around $9.46 million in 2023-24, which is a bargain for the impact he provides.