In Episode 11 of Second Round Syndrome, what host DJSportsZone calls a “therapeutic session” for Sixers fans turns into a full-blown venting hour after what the duo labels an “absolute outrageous travesty” of a trade deadline. DJ and co-host Jordan Sabel unload on a front office they believe prioritized ducking the luxury tax over legitimately competing for a championship.

Inside the Sixers’ trade deadline disaster:
• The Jared McCain Fleecing: The hosts torch the decision to trade 21-year-old rising star Jared McCain to the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder for a 2026 Rockets first-round pick and three second-rounders, calling the move “malpractice” and arguing the Sixers got “absolutely nothing” for a player with massive upside.
• Luxury Tax Ducking: The duo believes the entire deadline was about avoiding the tax, not winning now. Daryl Morey takes heavy criticism, with DJ even siding with James Harden’s infamous quote that “Daryl Morey is a liar.”
• Roster Fallout: While Joel Embiid is healthy and playing well, the Sixers face a major blow with Paul George receiving a 25-game suspension, sidelining him until late March. The hosts also react to Dominick Barlow being converted to a standard deal and the “throwaway” trade sending Eric Gordon to Memphis.

Blockbuster moves across the NBA:
• James Harden to Cleveland: In a stunning shake-up, Harden lands with the Cavaliers while the Clippers receive Darius Garland. The hosts debate whether Harden actually moves the needle and warn that Cleveland may have fallen for the usual “Harden tricks.”
• Wizards Reload: Washington makes waves after landing both Trae Young and Anthony Davis, with the Mavs dumping AD in a shocking pivot.
• Warriors Dynasty Over?: Golden State acquires Kristaps Porziņģis for Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga, a move the hosts view as a desperate sign the dynasty era is officially over.

A raw, emotional episode full of trade deadline fallout, league-shaking moves, and frustration that cuts straight to the heart of Second Round Syndrome.

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DJSportsZone: IG/Facebook/YouTube/TikTok @djsportszone