The Philadelphia 76ers just hit a major speed bump in what had been shaping up to be a promising season. Paul George has been suspended 25 games for violating the NBA’s drug policy - a blow that not only sidelines one of their most productive players, but also tests the depth and resilience of a team that’s been climbing the Eastern Conference ranks.
George had been a steady force this season, providing scoring, perimeter defense, and veteran leadership - all while staying relatively healthy. That combination helped the Sixers build momentum and establish themselves as legitimate contenders. Now, with George out until late in the season, the Sixers will have to lean heavily on their bench and supporting cast to keep pace in a competitive East.
The good news? Depth has been one of Philly’s quiet strengths this year.
They’ve gotten solid contributions across the board, and that versatility is going to be critical over the next 25 games. But even with a deep rotation, it’s hard to ignore the timing of this suspension - just ahead of the trade deadline.
The Sixers were already a team to watch, and now, the urgency to make a move may have just gone up a notch.
They’ve got some flexibility, too. A few of their contracts are movable, which opens the door for a potential deal that could help them stay afloat - or even upgrade - while George is out.
It’s unlikely they’ll swing for the fences with a blockbuster name like Giannis Antetokounmpo or Zion Williamson. Not only are those deals unrealistic at this stage, but Zion’s skillset doesn’t exactly fill a pressing need for Philly.
But if the Sixers are looking for a more realistic, under-the-radar move, there’s a name that makes a lot of sense: Saddiq Bey.
Bey, who’s worked his way back from an ACL injury that kept him out last season, has quietly been putting together a strong campaign with the Pelicans. He’s averaging a career-best 16.5 points per game and looking like the kind of two-way wing who could slide seamlessly into Philly’s rotation. He brings size, shooting, and defensive versatility - all things the Sixers could use more of, especially in George’s absence.
The Pelicans, for their part, haven’t exactly been lighting it up in the standings. And while they haven’t signaled that they’re sellers just yet, there’s a catch: they don’t own their 2026 first-round pick. That could make them more willing to move a player like Bey if a future pick is coming back their way.
A potential deal that could work? Andre Drummond and a future pick for Bey.
Drummond has largely fallen out of the Sixers’ rotation, and with his $5 million expiring contract, he’s a low-risk asset for New Orleans. Bey, meanwhile, is under contract for two more seasons at $6 million per year - a manageable number for a player who’s still trending upward.
It’s the kind of trade that doesn’t make headlines, but could quietly help both teams. For the Sixers, it’s a chance to patch the hole left by George and keep the momentum going into the stretch run. For the Pelicans, it’s a way to recoup an asset and potentially give Drummond a fresh start in a new system.
With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Sixers have a decision to make. Stand pat and ride the wave with their current depth?
Or make a calculated move to stay in the hunt while George serves his suspension? Either way, the next few weeks could go a long way in shaping how this season ends for Philly.