A blockbuster Ben Simmons trade could be closer than ever before with the Philadelphia 76ers reportedly beginning to find momentum in negotiations with teams across the NBA.
Simmons requested a trade this offseason, wanting to separate himself from an organization that he viewed as a bad fit for his skills and his mental health. There has been consistent drama between the two sides, but at least 10 teams remain interested in acquiring the All-NBA defender.
After months of 76ers’ president of basketball operations Daryl Morey refusing to move Simmons unless another NBA star becomes available, using a list of 30 players, there finally seems to be some momentum toward a blockbuster trade.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski and Zach Lowe reported Friday that the 76ers are ramping up trade talks regarding Simmons, discussing two- and three-team deals around the league. As Wojnarowski notes, there is more impetus because more NBA players are eligible to be traded Wednesday.
- Ben Simmons contract: $33 million (2021-’22), $35.45 million (2022-’23), $37.9 million (2023-’23) and $40.34 million (2024-’25)
The Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Minnesota Timberwolves and Portland Trail Blazers have all been linked to Simmons. Most recently, amid reports of dysfunction in Portland, rumors surfaced that the Trail Blazers offered CJ McCollum, first-round picks and a young player for Simmons.
Thus far, the 76ers have held out on showing any interest in a deal that doesn’t involve a player capable of becoming a star who could help Joel Embiid win a championship. But with Simmons focused on his mental health and staying away from the Sixers, the pressure might be building for Morey to make a move.
It seems like only a matter of time until a Simmons trade happens. When it does, a domino effect could unfold through the NBA that leads to other big moves by the Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers and other teams.
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