Sixers officially announce Jaylen Brown trade and Anfernee Simons, Dean Wade signings
The NBA’s moratorium period lifted on Monday afternoon, making the three moves from president of basketball Mike Gansey official.
The 76ers’ blockbuster trade for All-NBA forward Jaylen Brown, along with the free-agency signings of defensive forward Dean Wade and scoring guard Anfernee Simons, became official Monday afternoon when the NBA’s moratorium period was lifted.
Brown was acquired in exchange for Paul George and four draft picks. Here is how the Sixers described the complicated draft compensation going back to the Celtics, in a news release:
A 2028 first-round pick (the L.A. Clippers’ own) that, if it is top 16, instead becomes the unprotected right for Boston to swap its currently held 2028 first-round pick (the worst of Boston’s and San Antonio’s) with the better of the L.A. Clippers’ of (if Philadelphia’s is top 8) Philadelphia’s 2028 first-round pick.
Philadelphia’s 2031 unprotected first-round pick.
The most favorable 2028 second-round pick among Golden State’s, Milwaukee’s, or Oklahoma City’s.
The more favorable 2030 second-round pick among Phoenix’s, Portland’s, or Washington’s.
» READ MORE: The Jaylen Brown trade benefits VJ Edgecombe, who will now have the time he needs to develop
Brown is coming off the best individual season of his career, averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.1 assists and finishing sixth in voting for the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award. He propelled the Celtics to 56 regular-season wins — before they were upset by the Sixers in the playoffs’ first round — while playing the bulk of the season without fellow star Jayson Tatum, who was recovering from Achilles surgery.
Brown, new president of basketball operations Mike Gansey, and owner Josh Harris also provided statements about the deal:
» READ MORE: David Murphy: The one reason you can’t completely rule out the Sixers for LeBron James
Brown: “I’m excited to begin this next chapter in Philly. From every conversation I’ve had, it’s clear this is a group that’s hungry, competitive, and committed to winning; and that’s the kind of environment I’ve always embraced. I’ve always believed that success comes from sacrifice, accountability, and putting the team above yourself. I’m looking forward to building with this group, earning the trust of my teammates, and chasing something special together.
“Off the court, I’m just as excited to become part of the Philly community. Throughout my career, I’ve believed basketball can be a catalyst for creating real impact, and I’m eager to continue expanding the work of the 7uice Foundation, investing in youth, education, and opportunities that leave a lasting difference. I’m grateful for this opportunity, and I’m ready to get to work. #Throwtheballup”
Gansey: “Jaylen has proven himself as one of the league’s top players year after year. He is a dynamic playmaker with a versatile skill set that positively impacts the game on both ends of the floor. His wealth of experience, high basketball IQ, poise, and leadership will benefit this franchise for years to come.
“A perennial All-Star and All-NBA talent, Jaylen also has a special ability to elevate his game on the brightest of stages, as evidenced by his world championship and Finals MVP selection. We couldn’t be happier to officially welcome him as a 76er.”
Harris: “I am incredibly excited to welcome five-time NBA All-Star and 2024 Finals MVP Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers. Throughout his career, Jaylen has proven to be one of the best two-way players in the league. He knows what it takes to win at the highest levels and I can’t wait to see him alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and VJ Edgecombe.
“I also want to thank Paul for his contributions during his time in Philadelphia. Paul and his family were active in our community, and we’re appreciative of their time and impact here.”
Wade’s contract is for four years and roughly $39 million, while Simons’ deal is for two years and $12.3 million with a player option on the second year, The Inquirer confirmed via a league source.
Wade, who is projected to slide into the starting power forward spot next to Brown, is known as a stout defender, and averaged 5.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists in 59 games last season. He developed from undrafted player in 2019 to rotation contributor while Gansey was in his previous job as the Cleveland Cavaliers’ general manager.
Simons will be tasked with providing needed scoring punch to the Sixers’ bench. He averaged 14.3 points and shot 38.5% on 6.9 three-point attempts per game in a season split between the Celtics and Chicago Bulls. He also averaged 2.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists.
