Philadelphia 76ers: 5 Season-Saving Trades the Sixers Should Make

The Philadelphia 76ers stand at 25-17 after 42 games played. At this same time last year they had a 17-25 record (that is to say that they are much improved). The Sixers started out hot, going 20-9 before settling in at their current record now.

The NBA trade deadline is on Thursday and the Sixers may be in the mix of teams looking to make a deal. No one team in the NBA is perfect right now and maybe a move could shake things up for the better.

Here are five season-saving trades the Philadelphia 76ers should make before the NBA trade deadline.

Spencer Hawes and Thaddeus Young for Josh Smith

Josh Smith recently requested a trade from Atlanta a few days ago, and what better place to play than in Philly? The deal works from a financial standpoint and the Hawks would be getting two young players for the price of one.

Smith gives the Sixers another dynamic player who can run in Doug Collin's free-wheelin' offense and ups the Sixers' chances of going all the way this season.

Thaddeus Young and Lavoy Allen for Greg Monroe

Greg Monroe is a fantastic second-year player for the Pistons. The Pistons are, however, 15-26 this season and should look to get all they can from their young player.

The Sixers can part ways with Thad Young, who can help be a leader on the young Detroit squad. Lavoy Allen is another young player the Pistons can help groom. The trade would benefit both teams .

Spencer Hawes and a First-Round Pick for JeVale McGee

JeVale McGee is a young, athletic big man the Sixers need on their team. Hawes is good, but he is more of a finesse player.

It is unreasonable to expect him to come back to the form that gave the Sixers such a huge advantage earlier in the season. McGee is known to be a shot-blocker, can play inside and is not afraid to get aggressive.

Elton Brand, Spencer Hawes and Two First-Round Picks for Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard has been pining for a trade all season. He may get his wish by Thursday when the Sixers could make a deal to get him.

Brand and Hawes could be part of the package, but what makes this deal good for the Magic are the two first-round picks which they hope will be lottery selections. If Dwight leaves at the end of the year then they come up with nothing.

Thaddeus Young and Two First-Round Draft Picks for Kris Humphries

Humphries has been playing at an All-Star level this season. He has picked up his game on the boards and the defensive end, and the Sixers could use a player like that on the team.

Young is movable piece, and the two first-round picks would sweeten the deal.