The Philadelphia 76ers could make a move or two before the NBA trade deadline. They have started to look better, as their 7-15 record makes them only a game and a half outside of the No. 10 seed in the Eastern Conference, but they had much bigger goals than that.

A trade or two will be needed if they want to return to that echelon in the East. However, if and when the Sixers turn to the trade market, one of their new faces is safe.

NBA Insider Marc Stein reported on his Substack that despite the Sixers’ overall struggles as a team, Guerschon Yabusele is not going anywhere this season.

“Asking us, more specifically, if the Sixers’ 6-15 start could put Yabusele on the trade market between now and the Feb. 6 trade deadline,” Stein wrote. “All current signs point to a resounding no.”

Stein explained why Yabusele will likely remain with the team.

“One source consulted stressed that the Sixers are thrilled with the production they’ve gotten from Yabusele after bringing him back to the NBA following his Olympic star turn with hosts France. It’s one of the few things that has gone right for Joel Embiid and Co.; Yabusele entered Sunday’s play averaging 10.1 points and 5.8 rebounds in 25.0 minutes per game and 40.5% shooting from 3-point range … all while earning a shade under $2.1 million this season,” Stein concluded.

Teams don’t trade players who help at a low price

At first, it may seem like a good idea to add someone like Yabusele in a trade for an upgrade because he’s proven himself serviceable and inexpensive.

However, because the Sixers’ goal is to win a title, a player that fits that description is too useful to trade away.

Besides, with potential trade targets like Patrick Williams, it wouldn’t likely have to go that far because teams like those just want guys like him off their payroll no matter what. Yabusele’s contributions have been overshadowed by both the Sixers’ struggles and how good Jared McCain has been. However, they shouldn’t be disregarded in the slightest.

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