According to a report by Shams Charania of Real GM, a number of NBA teams have made trade inquiries regarding the SixersRobert Covington, but Philadelphia intends to hold onto the forward.

While the 24-year-old Covington is averaging 12.4 points, 4.4 rebounds and 1.3 steals in 27.2 minutes per game this season are solid, its his ability to knock down the open 3-point shot that has the Sixers thinking he is a core part of the franchise’s long-term plans.

The undrafted forward played his college ball at Tennessee State, scoring at least 17 points per game in each of his last two seasons in NCAA play. Covington first signed with the Rockets but was released over the summer and the Sixers scooped up the 6'9" Covington almost immediately.  Covington was the first pick in the D-League draft and was third in the D-League for scoring in 2013-14.

With Covington in the mix, the question is who else do the Sixers consider part of the core?  Michael Carter-Williams' name comes up often when discussing trades and his future in Philadelphia.  Nerlens Noel, who recently dismissed talk of a rift between he and Carter-Williams, isn't showing much of an offensive game, but looks like he could be a difference-making defensive presence.

What about Tony Wroten?  His name came up in trade talks a few weeks ago, but he is now out for the second time this season with a knee injury.

One thing is for sure, this team isn't afraid to make changes but it looks like Covington will not be one of them.

 

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