Although the Philadelphia 76ers’ roster is nominally complete, there could still be changes. According to an ESPN report, Kevin Love is currently putting his name in the mix with the Sixers. Things could therefore still get uncomfortable for German national team player Ariel Hukporti.
According to the U.S. sports network, Love’s management has been in contact with the franchise’s front office ever since LeBron decided to join the 76ers. The continued strong relationship between Love and James—who played together for four years with the Cavaliers—could also facilitate such a move.
However, it remains completely unclear whether Love—who became a free agent after one year in Utah—will actually be offered a contract. With the signing of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the 76ers have filled their final roster spot. So, in order to offer Love a contract, they would first have to remove a player from the payroll.
Among those in the spotlight is Ariel Hukporti, who signed a one-year contract in the City of Brotherly Love after winning the title with the New York Knicks. The center is set to earn $3.4 million next season. According to ESPN, the decision is likely to come down to him and Embiid’s second backup, Adem Bona—assuming Philadelphia actually decides to do so, which remains entirely unclear.
There is also interest in Love in Salt Lake City. Utah head coach Will Hardy is said to be a fan of Love’s seasoned influence on the team. However, the same problem arises here: On paper, the Jazz are already at full strength as well.