Morey Went Star Hunting for Kawhi Leonard, Sixers Quiet

The Sixers were quiet at the Feb. 5 deadline, but sources say president Daryl Morey was "star hunting," with Kawhi Leonard linked to Philadelphia. Leonard stayed in Los Angeles and the Clippers traded James Harden to Cleveland, leaving Philly to ship Jared McCain to Oklahoma City for a 2026 first and three second round picks. As O'Connor put it, "Nothing happened." At 33-28 and sixth in the East, the club added future assets and trimmed tax exposure but no immediate star to pair with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Merlin sees a deliberate gamble. The picks buy time and room, yet without a third star the Sixers risk being pushed aside in a crowded conference. If Embiid stays dominant and Maxey takes another leap, playoff berth is likely. If not, Morey’s patience may turn into a late season scramble.