Nerlens Noel of the Philadelphia 76ers is reportedly being traded to the Toronto Raptors or the Boston Celtics to decongest 76ers loaded frontcourt. The trade rumor continues to gain strength with Nerlens Noel and the Philadelphia 76ers failing to reach a contract extension by the NBA deadline for fourth-year players.
Also rumored to be on the move is fellow center Jahlil Okafor. But with Nerlens Noel being more vocal about his discontent with respect to how the 76ers organization is managing the team, the former 6th overall pick will probably be moved before this season ends. Also, it makes more sense for the Philadelphia 76ers to unload Nerlens Noel rather than allow the big man to walk away as a free-agent in 2017 without getting anything in return.
According to a report from ESPN, the Toronto Raptors is a possible landing spot for the oft-injured Nerlens Noel. With the Raptors Jared Sullinger being injured, Nerlens Noel can immediately fill the gap Sullinger left. However, a source close to the Raptors says that the Canada-based team is likely to give more playing time and develop their younger talents.
A much better option for Nerlens Noel is a trade to the Boston Celtics. As per NBA trade rule, a Nerlens Noel-Marcus Smart trade is plausible. According to Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe, "The Celtics have long admired Noel, so don't be surprised if they make an offer next summer, hoping to pair the Everett native with Al Horford in the frontcourt."
Another Nerlens Noel trade scenario is with the Golden State Warriors: Nerlens Noel for the sharpshooting guard Klay Thompson. However, according to Sportsrageous, the trade will not push through because of salary issues.
The Los Angeles Lakers is another possible landing spot for Nerlens Noel. A Nerlens Noel-Jordan Clarkson trade will be beneficial for both the Lakers and the 76ers. With Ben Simmons, the number 1 overall pick still sidelined, the 76ers is reportedly looking for a reliable playmaker. With Jordan Clarkson's strong start this season, the young guard can fill that role. That being said, the Lakers would have gained another big man to strengthen their interior.
