Philadelphia 76ers trade rumors 2016: Team to sign Rudy Fernandez?
Spanish guard Rudy Fernandez is reportedly not making a return to the National Basketball Association (NBA), despite being dragged to the rumor mill and being linked to the Philadelphia 76ers.
According to ESPN, there was a report from Spain that said the Sixers were trying to ink Fernandez to a two-year pact worth $20 million. But a number of reports denied the rumor involving the 31-year-old.
Fernandez has already played in the NBA but it was just a quick stint. For four seasons (2008-2012) in the league, he suited up for the Portland Trail Blazers (2008-2011) and the Denver Nuggets (2011-2012).
During Fernandez's time in the NBA, he rose to prominence because of his shooting and a number of highlight plays.
If the 76ers would have added Fernandez, he will bring veteran leadership to a team filled with talented youngsters. That is what the franchise needs as of the moment - someone with experience who can guide the young players and help them flourish.
ESPN added in the report that it is not Fernandez who the 76ers are bringing in, it is point guard Sergio Rodriguez who is also from Spain. Similar with his countryman, Rodriguez has NBA experience and played three seasons for the Blazers (2006-2009). Along with this, the 30-year-old suited up for the New York Knicks and the Sacramento Kings.
The Sixers are hoping Rodriguez's playmaking skills will help them facilitate their offense better in the 2016-17 NBA season.
What the 76ers are doing in only making little moves like this is a little surprising. Usually, a rebuilding franchise goes all-out in free agency or engages in trade deals to acquire players that can help bring success. So far, aside from the selection of Ben Simmons in this year's draft, the 76ers are yet to have a major signing this off-season.