The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly pursuing backup point guard Norris Cole, who became a restricted free agent for the New Orleans Pelicans this July, as per the Philadelphia Sun-Times.

Like Us on Facebook

Cole, who was once the prized playmaker substitute of the two-time NBA champions Miami Heat in 2012 and 2013, was acquired by the Pelicans from the Heat last February in a three-team transaction with the Phoenix Suns.

The 6-foot-2, 175-pound floor general played 28 games for former Pelican head coach Monty Williams last season. He started two and averaged a career-high 9.9 ppg with 3.2 apg and 1.8 rpg in a little over 24 minutes of play per night. He also shot a career-best 44.4 percent from the field, showing signs that he is thriving in New Orleans' scheme.

However, in May of this year, Williams was replaced by recent champion Golden State Warriors' assistant coach Alvin Gentry as the team's new chief tactician, which made Cole's future with the squad uncertain.

According to NBC Philadelphia, the Sixers are targeting Cole to shore up their thin backcourt composed of Ish Smith, Tony Wroten, Robert Covington and veteran Jason Richardson. In Brett Brown's team, Cole actually has a shot to become a starter and boost his career even more.

The former Cleveland State Viking is one of the most reliable two-way point guards in the league. While he is only an average perimeter player, he is quick to penetrate the lane for a lay-in and is crafty enough to acknowledge and kick out to an open shooter. On defense, he is aggressive and can get in the chest of some of the most well-known guards in both conferences.

However, things are not going to be easy for the Sixers as the Pelicans are reportedly keen on keeping the champion playmaker on their side.

The Times-Picayune recently reported that the New Orleans management are currently "making a push" to re-sign Cole. He just received a $3 million qualifying offer from the Pelicans and if the Sixers can offer more, then they might just snag him away from Anthony Davis and company.

The Pelicans are said to be inclined on offering him a long-term extension worth $3.8 million per year, although there were no official reports yet.

TagsNBA 2015, NBA news, NBA News 2015, NBA rumors, NBA Rumors 2015, NBA Trade Rumors, NBA trade rumors 2015, Norris Cole, philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans