Andre Iguodala Trade Talk: Should the Philadelphia 76ers Trade the Swingman?

Will the Philadelphia 76ers trade forward/guard Andre Iguodala before the start of the 2012-'13 NBA season?

There appears to be some interest in the forward, especially from the Toronto Raptors which is looking into the possibility of trading its first-round pick (No. 8 overall) and possibly other players. According to a report by ESPN.com's Marc Stein and Chad Ford, the Raptors are really looking to make a move due to the expected arrival of Lithuanian player Jonas Valanciunas (No. 5 pick in 2011).

However, it would seem odd for the 76ers to trade Iguodala unless it is going to receive a center or a younger big man in return. The 76ers could lose Spencer Hawes through free agency and Elton Brand is not the same player he once was. Additionally, Thaddeus Young is more of a power forward than a true NBA center.

Although not a high-percentage shooter, Iguodala’s ability to get to the rim and freakish athleticism make him a valuable player not only in Philadelphia, but throughout the league. He averaged 12.9 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game this past season showing he is more of an all-around player than just a pure scorer.

Iguodala is also an underrated defender that is able to get steals and deflections due to his long arms, making him a defensive presence and possibly increasing his trade value.

The Raptors could use a forward to play on the wing but may not have the pieces to get such a deal completed unless they possibly move Andrea Bargnani, although he appears to be a key part of the team’s future. Although Bargnani has had his own struggles in Toronto, the Raptors may decide to pair him with Valanciunas to see how his play develops first.

This could be an interesting storyline as the draft and free agency are right around the corner.