Sixers pursued two-time NBA champion in free agency?

The Philadelphia 76ers' backcourt almost saw a major upgrade this offseason with former Denver Nuggets guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.

Pope ultimately decided to sign with the Orlando Magic on a three-year contract, but it's reported by HoopsHype's Michael Scotto the Sixers were the other suitor involved.

"Heading into free agency, the Denver Nuggets expected to be outbid by either the Orlando Magic or Philadelphia 76ers for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope," Scotto wrote. "And he ended up agreeing to a three-year, $66 million deal with Orlando on the first day of free agency."

Pope is a massive addition to the Magic's guard room, as they were in desperate need of a veteran presence. The 31-year-old averaged 10.1 points and 1.3 steals on 46% shooting from the field and 40.6% from 3-point range last season. The two-time NBA champion wasn't the only connection between Denver and Philadelphia, as the Nuggets were reportedly among the numerous teams interested in sharpshooter Buddy Hield via sign-and-trade.

"Before Buddy Hield agreed to a sign-and-trade deal with the Golden State Warriors, there was some communication with the Nuggets, league sources told HoopsHype." Scotto wrote. "However, Denver couldn’t come close financially to being a finalist in Hield’s decision."