Utah Jazz give guard rotation a fair ‘Shake’
Of all the trades we’ll suggest in this article, this one has the most variables attached to it. After all, in case you haven’t heard, the 76ers have more concerns than just shoring up their frontcourt reserves.
At the same time, a potential Ben Simmons trade could open the door for further moves from this front office. Hypothetically, if the Sixers were able to trade Simmons for a star point guard, that would push current starter Tyrese Maxey to the second unit, which in turn would render Shake Milton a third-string guard.
He’s a little too good for that status. So far this season, Milton is averaging 11.9 points per game. Granted, his 27.0% three-point shooting leaves a lot to be desired, but he’s still a tremendous upgrade over Trent Forrest. Furthermore, it’s possible that Milton’s ability to penetrate defenses would generate better looks for the currently struggling Jordan Clarkson. Milton’s 3.2 assists per game may not be elite, but it’s a solid figure given his current score-first role on the 76ers.
The 76ers are unquestionably happy with the production they’re receiving from former Utah Jazz player Georges Niang as a backup power forward. However, their general forward depth does leave a little to be desired. Backup small forward Matisse Thybulle is a defensive dynamo, but he offers almost zero offensive value. Meanwhile, third string forward Paul Reed does not appear NBA ready in his sophomore campaign.
Paschall could maximize his versatility with the 76ers, seeing time at the 4 as well as the 5 in small-ball lineups and the 3 in jumbo lines. They don’t have the same depth of quality forwards impeding his path to playing time that the Utah Jazz do.
This trade is almost entirely contingent on a Ben Simmons swap coming to fruition. The Sixers can’t spare Milton unless they land De’Aaron Fox, Malcolm Brogdon, or one of several other potential guards. If they do, it may create an opening for the Utah Jazz to capitalize.