The Philadelphia 76ers are no strangers to bold moves, and with the NBA trade deadline looming, they’re once again in the thick of the rumor mill - this time, linked to none other than Giannis Antetokounmpo. While the idea of landing the Milwaukee Bucks superstar might seem like a long shot, the Sixers could be better positioned than most to make a serious run at him - if they’re willing to put their chips on the table.
At the heart of this potential blockbuster is rookie guard VJ Edgecombe. The No. 3 overall pick has quickly made a name for himself with a strong start to his NBA career, and he's widely seen as a cornerstone for the Sixers’ future.
That’s exactly why his name being floated in trade talks raised eyebrows - and why it was quickly shut down by those close to the team. Still, in the unpredictable world of deadline deals, nothing is ever truly off the table.
According to league insiders, Edgecombe could be the piece that tips the scales in Philadelphia’s favor if Milwaukee decides to entertain offers for Antetokounmpo. The Sixers have long been aggressive under GM Daryl Morey, who has a well-documented history of chasing stars. With Joel Embiid already in place and Tyrese Maxey blossoming into an All-Star caliber guard, adding Giannis would form a trio that instantly vaults Philly into the championship conversation.
Let’s break that down: Antetokounmpo, Embiid, and Maxey - three of the top talents in the Eastern Conference, all on one roster. That’s not just a dream Big Three; it’s a potential Finals juggernaut. And for Morey, who’s still seeking his first trip to the NBA Finals as a GM, this could be the kind of move that changes everything.
Of course, a trade of this magnitude doesn’t come without complications. One version of the deal being discussed includes Edgecombe, Paul George, and two future first-round picks - one in 2028 and another in 2030.
That’s a hefty price tag, but it’s also a deal that could help the Sixers financially. Moving George’s contract would drop them below the luxury tax and open up a roster spot.
And while George is currently serving a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy, that situation might actually play to Philadelphia’s advantage.
From Milwaukee’s side, the math makes sense. In essence, they’d be getting Edgecombe and a pick for Giannis, plus another pick to absorb the final two years and $110.7 million left on George’s deal after this season. If the Bucks are truly ready to hit the reset button, that’s a package that gives them a promising young player, draft capital, and a better shot at a high lottery pick in 2026.
And that’s where George’s suspension becomes a factor. If Milwaukee is leaning into a rebuild, his absence could help the team slide down the standings - increasing their chances of landing a top pick in a loaded draft.
Still, the Sixers don’t seem eager to part ways with Edgecombe. A league source reportedly dismissed any suggestion that Philly would include the rookie in a deal for Giannis, calling him a foundational piece alongside Maxey.
That perspective makes sense. Edgecombe has shown poise, scoring ability, and defensive instincts well beyond his years.
Pairing him with Maxey gives the Sixers a dynamic young backcourt that could anchor the franchise for the next decade.
But this is Giannis we’re talking about. A two-time MVP, a Finals MVP, and one of the most dominant two-way players in the league.
He doesn’t just elevate a team - he transforms it. And for a franchise that hasn’t reached the conference finals since 2001, the temptation to go all-in is real.
So here’s the question facing Philadelphia: Do you hold firm with your young core and build for the long haul, or do you swing for the fences and try to win it all right now?
With the deadline fast approaching, we may not have to wait long for an answer.