Chicago Bulls' Jalen Smith Emerges as Viable Backup Center Option for the Philadelphia 76ers

The 2026-2027 NBA season is just around the corner, and several teams are already making waves with their roster decisions. One team that has been making headlines is the Philadelphia 76ers, who are expected to have an open roster spot after a blockbuster offseason. While the Sixers' core remains strong, with Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and VJ Edgecombe leading the charge, there are concerns about the team's depth at the center position. With Embiid's availability struggles a growing concern, the Sixers will be looking to bolster their bench with some capable back-up options.

The team's search for an ideal backup center has led them to explore potential trade options, and the Chicago Bulls' Jalen Smith has emerged as a viable candidate. Smith, a 26-year-old veteran center, has been in the league since 2020 and has shown promising numbers. Currently, Smith is on a three-year deal with the Bulls, but with some promising young talent on the team, it's likely that he could be on the move. The Sixers are expected to shop around Smith's $9.4 million salary, and with the right offer, a trade could be on the horizon.

Jalen Smith has a proven track record in the league, with a solid 2025-2026 season to his name. He started just 21 of the 53 games he played but averaged 10.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game. His shooting percentages from the field and beyond the arc are also impressive, with 48.3% and 37.3% respectively. While Smith may not be a number one option, he could provide a reliable backup center who can step in and provide quality minutes when Embiid needs a break.

So, how can the Sixers acquire Jalen Smith? As it turns out, there is a path to move in on his $9.4 million salary. By sending Dominick Barlow, Ariel Hukporti, and Justin Edwards to the Bulls, the Sixers could match Smith's numbers. The trade would have to occur in mid-December, when Hukporti becomes eligible. The sixers' front office is likely to consider this move as it would provide them with a much-needed boost in the center position.

But, what about the Bulls? Would they be willing to part with Smith? While Jalen has been with the team for a few years now, he's not considered part of the team's long-term plans. With some promising young talent on the horizon, it's likely that the Bulls would be open to trading him. Smith's contract is a manageable $9.4 million per year, making him an attractive trade option for the Sixers.

Justin Edwards, one of the players the Sixers might send to the Bulls, has shown flashes of brilliance in his time with the team. A 22-year-old Philadelphia native, Edwards has been with the 76ers for two seasons, averaging 10.1 points and 3.4 rebounds. He's shown a keen eye for three-pointers, knocking down 36.3% of his attempts. With the Bulls' rebuilding efforts underway, Edwards could be an ideal fit. By joining the Bulls, he could receive more playing time, honing his skills in a new environment. The trade would also help the Sixers, allowing them to bolster their bench with a capable backup center.

In conclusion, Jalen Smith has emerged as a viable backup center option for the Philadelphia 76ers. With his impressive past performance and the Bulls' willingness to trade him, the Sixers should explore this option in the coming months. While there are no guarantees in sports, the potential of a successful trade makes it an exciting development to watch. Fans of the 76ers and the Bulls alike will be keenly following this story as we approach the start of the new NBA season.