76ers ‘operating as buyers’ heading into trade deadline, per report

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Joel Embiid's short-term future following the meniscus surgery he underwent this week, the Philadelphia 76ers are "operating as buyers" heading into the NBA trade deadline on Feb. 8, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.

On a separate appearance on ESPN, Wojnarowski shed some light on what the Sixers are looking for in terms of upgrades.

Basically, it sounds like the Sixers aren't ready to punt on the current campaign just because of Embiid's injury. Rather, they want to be in position to make a run if and when Embiid is ultimately able to return this season.

But, while they are actively looking for upgrades, the Sixers are also aiming to preserve as much salary cap space as possible moving forward. That means their top targets are guys on expiring deals.

That's not to say the team wouldn't take on a player with additional years on a contract, but if they were going to do that it would have to be for a player that the front office is confident would be an ideal fit alongside Embiid and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey moving forward.

Given the current condition of the roster, it is very likely that the Sixers will make a move(s) prior to the deadline. What the magnitude of such moves will be is the question. With Embiid out for the foreseeable future, the addition of another center is likely, as is the addition of another floor-spacer.

At this point, we won't have to wait too long to see what other moves are made.