NBA Trade Rumors: Dealing Andre Iguodala Would Be Foolish Move for 76ers

Andre Iguodala has been on the trade block basically for the last two years, yet the Philadelphia 76ers always find a reason to keep him. This summer promises to be no different, despite the talk that the team is shopping the All-Star. 

According to Alex Kennedy of Hoopsworld.com, Iguodala could very much be in play if the 76ers find the right offer. (Note: The report originally came out May 24, when the team was still in the playoffs.)

"

Even with Philadelphia’s recent success, league sources insist that Iguodala is a player who could be moved this offseason if the right offer comes along.

"

Kennedy also writes that the Lakers could end up being the ones to land Iguodala if they get rid of Metta World Peace. 

However, the idea that the 76ers would consider moving Iguodala right now—after the season he and the franchise just had—makes no sense. They should be building around a player like him, not dealing him. 

A year ago, moving Iguodala would have made sense. The franchise was coming off a mediocre 41-41 season, and were dominated by Miami in the postseason. They had a number of big contracts and no real hope of becoming a legitimate contender again. 

A lot changed for the 76ers when the 2011-12 season started. They were one of the best teams in the eastern conference, boasting one of the best defensive schemes in all of basketball. Despite fading down the stretch, they were able to pull off an upset of the Bulls in the first round of the NBA playoffs. (Yes, I know the Bulls were without Derrick Rose.)

After that, the 76ers gave the Boston Celtics, who are on the verge of playing in the NBA Finals, all they could handle in seven games. 

Iguodala is their enforcer on offense and defense. He is not a great shooter, but his presence and physical skills help everyone around him when the 76ers have the ball. Defensively, he is versatile and long, with the ability to cover taller players and enough speed to handle smaller, quicker guards. 

Trading Iguodala away would alter the dynamic that the 76ers have established, and all but force them to enter a rebuilding phase. Unless they can find a superstar haul for him, which is unlikely, there is no reason to move him at this point. 

Follow @adamwells1985