The Nets are expected to finalize a deal Thursday to send Kirilenko to the Sixers, ESPN's Mike Mazzeo reports.

The Nets are expected to finalize a deal Thursday to send Kirilenko to the Sixers, ESPN's Mike Mazzeo reports.

Analysis:

The deal was originally reported by Yahoo! Sports. Kirilenko wasn't expected to travel with the team any time soon while dealing with a family matter, but the Nets' patience appears to finally be wearing thin. When he does make his return to the court, he'll likely see a more prominent role on the lowly Sixers. The deal will save the Nets roughly $12 million in salary and luxury tax, and will likely also send a draft pick to Philadelphia.