In an effort to bolster their bench behind All-Star center Joel Embiid, the Sixers have expressed interest in acquiring center Dewayne Dedmon from the Atlanta Hawks, as first reported by the Sporting News and confirmed by a source with team knowledge.

In Dedmon, the Sixers see a player that could log legitimate minutes behind Embiid at the center spot while providing defense, rebounding, and more-than-serviceable offensive output. On the season, Dedmon is averaging 10 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game for the Hawks while shooting 55.8% from the field and 38.3% from beyond the arc.

In short, Dedmon would provide the Sixers with a more well-rounded player for the role currently tabbed to Amir Johnson and [to a much lesser extent] Richaun Holmes, who both have their limitations while playing the center spot.

Dedmon is already somewhat familiar with Philadelphia, as he played in 11 games for the Sixers during the 2013-14 season.

While it’s not clear exactly what the Sixers would give up in order to acquire Dedmon, a package based around future second-round picks and/or expiring contracts is a good guess. Dedmon, 28, is making $6 million this season and has a player option for $6.3 million for next season, which he is likely to turn down based on his productive play this season.

While the Sixers have more pressing needs – namely adding more perimeter scorers – adding a solid big man like Dedmon at a reasonable price doesn’t hurt as the team fights for its first playoff appearance under Brett Brown.

 

Follow Michael Kaskey-Blomain on Twitter @therealmikekb.

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