NBA Blog Post

  • join now
  • login
  • Login
New-look Nuggets, 76ers and Magic
NBA, Team News / Analysis, Andre Iguodala, Andrew Bynum, Al Harrington, Arron Afflalo

How Did the Other Teams in the Howard Trade Fare?

8/16/12 in NBA   |   Andrew_Ericksen   |   167 respect

With all the attention we’ve been giving to the powerful Lakers four-some, I’ve found myself forgetting that other teams made some identity changes in the four-team Dwight Howard trade this past week as well.  Sure, the Lakers clearly got the prize-piece in the deal, but how did the other three teams really fair?
 
Philadelphia 76ers
Main acquisition – Andrew Bynum
Main loss – Andre Iguodala
 
May 4, 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum (17) rebounds the ball during the second half of game three in the Western Conference quarterfinals of the 2012 NBA Playoffs at the Pepsi Center.  Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-US PRESSWIREThe Sixers have been in desperate need of a go-to superstar since Allen Iverson was sent packing to Denver.  The Brand experiment failed and although Iguodala had his moments, he fits better as a complementary player and became a forced star in Philly. 
 
Enter Andrew Bynum.  His introduction into the world of the 76ers couldn’t have gone more smoothly.  Fans chanted his name as he entered the National Constitution Center yesterday, and he told the ecstatic crowd, “My first experiences here have been so great, I’m really leaning toward making this my home.”
 
Bynum has shown flashes of dominance the past couple seasons, but his temper tantrums and inconsistent play have tainted a lot of his production.  The Lakers were hesitant to name Bynum their number 2 after Kobe, but in Philadelphia, he’ll be expected to be the number 1.  He’s definitely a much-needed presence in the Philly frontcourt, but as the face of the franchise, I’d be a little worried.  It’s a step in the right direction attaining a top-level big man in a league where they come at a premium, but still just a step.  Could they have gotten more out of Iguodala?  Probably not, so it’s hard to not like the move.  Jason Richardson also joins Bynum in Philadelphia.
 
Acquisition Grade – B+
 
Notify me by email about comments that follow mine. Preview