With Sixers going strong, Iguodala, Brand off the market

When the Sixers started off the season 3-13, it appeared the franchise was headed for another high draft position and would have to begin peddling assets in order to speed up the rebuilding process. Several teams -- including Cleveland and Houston -- inquired about swingman Andre Iguodala, and the Sixers were considering peddling Elton Brand, too. Those are the two biggest contracts on the payroll.

With a win over the Suns on Monday, though, the Sixers moved to 16-12 since that rough start. New coach Doug Collins has been consistent all year in his desire to play to win, rather than playing young guys and seeing how they develop. He took some criticism for not playing No. 2 overall pick Evan Turner when Turner was struggling early on, saying that Turner needed to make shots in order to get on the floor. Collins’ insistence on focusing on winning now is paying off.

The playoff push has clearly lifted the Sixers’ outlook. According sources around the league, Philadelphia is not eager to make major roster changes now, and both Iguodala and Brand are all but certain to be with the team throughout this season.