The Sixers traded Rodney Carney, a future No. 1 pick, and Calvin Booth to the Minnesota Timberwolves Monday. The Sixers clear up some much needed cap space, giving them about $14 million to pursue a top flight free agent. It is not clear yet what the Sixers will get in return.

In his two years in the NBA, Carney averaged 6.2 points and two rebounds per game.

It is widely believed that the Sixers will offer all $14 million and a long term deal to big time forwards like Elton Brand or Josh Smith.

Smith was in town last week to work out for the Sixers, but they did not give the restricted free agent an offer sheet. Smith’s current team, the Atlanta Hawks, have publicly committed to matching any offer given to Smith.

Brand, on the other hand, has opted out of the last year of his contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. He has said that he plans to stay in Los Angeles despite his decision, even if he has to take a contract that is below the NBA maximum for free agents. That being said, both the Clippers and Golden State Warriors have reportedly been heavily pursuing Brand, and he has yet commit to either team. He has also previously expressed interest in playing in Philly, so it appears that the Sixers have a serious shot at landing the forward.

The Sixers are poised to be very active over the next couple days so continue to check back here at Hot Stove Philly.