The team announced Thursday morning that the 76ers reached a deal with New Orleans in the early hours of Thursday morning and won the 53rd overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. According to a source familiar with the situation, Philadelphia is sending cash-$2 million to the Pelicans, and according to Shams Charania, they completed the transaction after morning and night the night before.

A team source told the Voice of Philadelphia that the team took this move to increase their flexibility on draft night. Getting an extra second round, even the late second round, provided the 76ers with multiple options on Thursday night. The No. 53 pick itself is not that valuable, but if the 76ers decide they want to be promoted in the draft, transfer their 2021 pick to a veteran free agent, or trade the pick to gain more future assets. , They now have an additional option to achieve this goal.

(Moreover, it’s worth noting that in recent years, the 76ers have unearthed some gems in the late second round, and Shake Milton at 54th place is one of their recent major success stories.)

Consistent with the Intel collected last week, the team members still believe The 76ers will move to No. 28 Thursday night in some form or way, but if there is a suitable opportunity, they can still choose in their place. As of Thursday morning, a source told PhillyVoice that the 76ers have received a lot of calls, but based on conversations with team personnel, nothing is imminent big action (related to Simmons or otherwise).

In the past few years, ownership has been criticized for Philadelphia’s habit of selling second-round picks, which has raised questions about their commitment to winning. Daryl Morey is authorized to spend money to make a profit, which is a positive sign for the team, as they are looking to improve the team in any necessary way.

We will keep you informed because the 76ers hope to spend an important night in the draft.

This story is developing…

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