Were 76ers prepared to make blockbuster trade for Lauri Markkanen?

The public already considered the Philadelphia 76ers one of the most successful offseasons, but it seems the organization was hoping to blow the rest of the NBA out of the water.

The signing of star Paul George highlighted a group that included multiple impactful players, such as Caleb Martin and Eric Gordon. It seems another star in Utah Jazz's Lauri Markkanen nearly joined the mix via trade.

76ers team president Daryl Morey recently made mention of a major deal that fell through on the 'Rights To Ricky Sanchez' podcast.

"So there was a trade, soon after Paul came, where we would've had to give up quite a few of those picks," Morey shared. "Our payroll next year would've been $315 million. That would be ideal, we are right there."

While Morey never mentioned Markkanen by name, the 7-footer is the most discussed name in the trade market. The payroll mentioned also matches up rather well with his contract.

The blockbuster deal likely crumbled due to the substantial asking price from Jazz CEO Danny Ainge. It's rumored he's searching for heavy draft capital and promising young stars from the Golden State Warriors, who have emerged as Markkanen's top suitor.

Markkanen becomes contract extension eligible on August 6, meaning this saga should end in the coming weeks.