The Philadelphia 76ers are talking to the San Antonio Spurs about a potential trade to move up from the No. 3 to the No. 2 overall pick, with the aim of selecting Rutgers guard Dylan Harper. Harper is widely considered the consensus No. 2 prospect in this year’s class, behind Duke’s Cooper Flagg, who is expected to go first overall to the Dallas Mavericks.

The Spurs’ position at No. 2 has drawn league-wide attention because of their recent backcourt moves. San Antonio already boasts a crowded guard rotation, having traded for De’Aaron Fox at the deadline and drafted Stephon Castle last year, alongside Devin Vassell.

This depth has led to speculation that the Spurs might be open to trading down, especially if they feel Harper’s fit is not ideal for their current roster. However, early indications suggest the Spurs are leaning toward keeping the pick and selecting Harper, opting for the best player available and planning to sort out rotation questions later.

Finding a co-star for Maxey

For Philadelphia, moving up one spot would be an aggressive play to secure a dynamic backcourt partner for All-Star Tyrese Maxey.

The Sixers have lacked secondary playmaking behind Maxey, and Harper’s size and skill set could provide the versatility and star upside they seek. However, the challenge for Philadelphia is meeting San Antonio’s asking price.

The Sixers have limited immediate draft assets but could offer future first-round picks or young talent such as Jared McCain, last year’s No. 16 pick, who impressed before a knee injury.

Trade likelihood and Draft night intrigue

While talks are ongoing, there is skepticism within league circles about the likelihood of a deal. The Spurs are reportedly not interested in dropping far in the draft, as they want to keep adding elite young talent around Victor Wembanyama.

Moving back just one spot to No. 3 could appeal to San Antonio if it nets them additional assets and still allows them to select from the next tier of prospects, such as Ace Bailey or VJ Edgecombe, both of whom have worked out for Philadelphia recently.

The situation remains fluid, and most insiders believe any movement is more likely to occur closer to or on draft night. As the draft draws near, all eyes will be on whether Philadelphia can pull off a trade to land Harper and reshape their backcourt for the future.