We unpack recent rumors about the 76ers' inclination to wait until the summer to flip Ben Simmons for James Harden in a sign-and-trade, as well as Harden's reported disillusionment with his living and playing situation in Brooklyn. Is this a wise gambit for the Sixers given the alternatives available to them ahead of the trade deadline? Does Harden actually want to go to Philly? Could the Sixers make a Simmons trade now *and* get Harden in the offseason? Are we headed toward a sign-and-trade bidding war?

After that, we discuss the impact of the injuries to Lonzo Ball and Alex Caruso, and wonder if those injuries will change the Bulls' approach to the deadline.

Finally, we check in on the surging Mavericks, who have yet to hit their stride offensively but are being carried by their 4th-ranked (!) defense.