The Philly Sports Blog

Sixers and Flyers made some trades this week, both being good for each team. One was a swap of mid-talent players, and the other was a huge blockbuster. Let's start with the blockbuster.

The Sixer/Iverson ordeal is finally over. The Sixers traded Iverson and Ivan McFarlin to the Denver Nuggets for Andre Miller, Joe Smith and two First Round draft picks this June. The Nuggets are getting arguably the best player in the NBA, while the Sixers are getting some salary cap relief and two more chances to build for the future. I think this is a great deal for both teams. Iverson will bring even more electricity to an already offensively impressive lineup. If he and Anthony can gel, this team has to be considered a top pick for the title.

What does this mean for the Sixers? Miller will bring a steady playmaker in the back court and Smith's contract is up at season's end, so they will be closer to the cap. Also, they get two more draft picks for this very deep draft coming up. Sixers might not look good for a year or two, but give them 3-5 years, you might be seeing a top team again in Philadelphia...as long as King doesn't screw up this draft.

Flyers also made a trade. They traded Randy Robitaille and a 3rd Round pick to the Islanders for Mike York. York is a bit younger, a bit more versatile and a bit faster. Also, his contract is up at years end so there is more money off the cap. I don't see this move doing much for the Win/Loss column, but that's ok. This season is over, and the Flyers are playing for the highest draft pick they can, as well as giving the youngsters some valuable experience.

# posted by Bill Lutz @ 9:27 AM