The Philadelphia 76ers and Daryl Morey are always keeping tabs on the market. They know they have a franchise cornerstone in Joel Embiid and that he needs more help to go the distance, and they won't hesitate to be aggressive in their pursuit of a ring.

That's why it's not surprising to see them as a potential destination for Kevin Durant. And even though it may seem like a long shot, ESPN's Brian Windhorst hinted at this months ago.

The wheels have been in motion for quite some time now. First, Morey needed James Harden to take a pay cut and give them some financial flexibility:

Windhorst never mentioned Durant's name as his trade request came out of the blue. But the foundation was already set for Morey and the Sixers' masterplan:

Also, the Sixers have more than enough assets to make it a sweet deal for the Nets, as well as enough salary-fillers to make the deal work:

So, now that Ian Begley reports that KD has made the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers his preferred destinations, all that's left is finding ways to get a deal, which could be easier said than done.

But moreover, the fact that James Harden was spotted with Durant lately shuts down the rumors of a potential rift between them, opening the door for a big splash in Philly. Will it happen? Stay tuned and find out.