PHILADELPHIA–The Philadelphia 76ers made their move at the deadline as they acquired Jalen McDaniels in a four-team deal that sent Matisse Thybulle to the Portland Trail Blazers. The Sixers are hoping that McDaniels can give the Sixers a big lift on both ends of the floor.
McDaniels was made available for Friday’s contest with the New York Knicks after the trade was completed, but he ended up not playing. Instead, he watched his new team knock off the Knicks 119-108 after Philadelphia trailed by as many as 13.
Afterward, McDaniels’ new teammates all gave their thoughts on the new addition to the team.
James Harden
“He gives us length and athleticism. Obviously, Matisse was very good for us. I hope he does well in Portland, but he gives us athleticism, length, and hopefully, shooting. I’m excited to have him.”
Tobias Harris
“I think it’s gonna be great for us. It’s sad to see Matisse leave, obviously, I’ve been here with him since he first got drafted. I know he’s gonna do well in Portland and I’m happy for the situation that he’s in. I just thank him for everything he brought to our team, our locker room, our organization, but I think Jalen adds another piece. I’m excited to get out on the floor with him and make this run.”
De’Anthony Melton
“I think it’s a great addition. I think he’s long, athletic, young guy that can get up and down, he plays with a lot of energy, and I just think that’s what we need and looking for on this team. He gets it done on both ends of the floor. Especially, on the defensive end.”
Joel Embiid
“It’s great. Another defender that’s gonna help us for the end of the season and the playoffs. Just gotta get him on the same page as everybody and go from there.”
Embiid on losing Thybulle
“That’s another talented guy that you lose. Especially, defensively. Probably our best perimeter defender so it’s tough, but I guess I’m glad I don’t make those decisions.”
Story originally appeared on Sixers Wire
