Throughout the 2025-2026 NBA season, the Philadelphia 76ers avoided getting involved in any of the league’s blockbuster trade sweepstakes.
Several big names were moved, including Trae Young, Anthony Davis, James Harden, and Darius Garland. Some were rumored to be on the block, like Ja Morant.
Ultimately, the Sixers believed in their core guys: Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Paul George, and the rookie VJ Edgecombe.
The Giannis Antetokounmpo market was one that the Sixers were briefly linked to. While the chances of Philly’s president of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, landing the deal were slim, a recent report suggests that the Sixers might’ve had a good chance if they were willing to part ways with a promising rookie.
76ers Hold Major Giannis Trade Asset
GettyMILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – MARCH 07: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks dribbles the ball against Cody Williams #5 of the Utah Jazz during the first quarter at Fiserv Forum on March 07, 2026 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
With the Antetokounmpo trade sweepstakes far from settled in Milwaukee, the NBA is preparing for another round of rumors and negotiations surrounding the Greek Freak this upcoming summer.
On Friday, March 20, ESPN dropped a loaded report with the latest details on the situation. The Sixers had a small–yet–significant mention.
“Multiple sources across the league said the Bucks’ asking price was enormous, with an executive from a third team describing the Bucks’ process as “gauging the market” and their price as ‘all our draft picks and good young players.’
The Golden State Warriors offer included four unprotected first-round picks in pursuit of Antetokounmpo, sources said, but never seemed to gain much momentum on a deal.
The players the Bucks did seem interested in were younger building blocks such as VJ Edgecombe of the Philadelphia 76ers or Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources said.”
The idea that the Sixers would have to part ways with a player like Edgecombe to land Giannis doesn’t come as a surprise.
However, the rumor that suggests the Bucks are specifically targeting Edgecombe does.
The Sixers are known star hunters, and have been especially since Daryl Morey has taken over the front office. But many reports in the past have suggested that Edgecombe was off-limits in any potential trade talks.
That was reported to be the case back when Kevin Durant and Damian Lillard were on the trade block, and Tyrese Maxey was still in the midst of his rookie deal. The Sixers clearly held on to Maxey and eventually locked him in long-term with a max deal.
VJ Edgecombe’s Value Is Up
GettyPhiladelphia 76ers rookie VJ Edgecombe is thriving.
The Bucks’ rumored interest in Edgecombe is understandable.
The former third pick out of Baylor has started all 63 games he has played for the Sixers in 2025-2026. Seeing the court for 34.9 minutes per game, the rookie has averaged 15.6 points (42.8% FG, 34.6% 3PT), 5.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists.
As he thrives through his rookie year, Edgecombe is viewed as a future cornerstone player for the 76ers’ franchise. Despite having zero playoff experience, the 76ers have expressed confidence in his ability to contribute to a winning situation.
Health issues have prevented the Sixers from being their best selves this year. After spending most of the season within the Eastern Conference’s top six, Philadelphia has slid down the standings to the ninth seed at 38-32.
Getting Edgecombe any postseason experience would be critical to his development. Regardless of how the remainder of the season pans out, Edgecombe will hold high value in any trade discussions should the 76ers get involved in blockbuster talks.
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