Report: Pacers spoke with 76ers about potential trade for All-Star Ben Simmons
Philadelphia 76ers All-Star guard Ben Simmons seemingly isn't too bothered the club reportedly placed $8.25 million owed to him at the start of October into an escrow account, as the 25-year-old remains away from his current employer in an attempt to force a trade either before or after the season starts.
According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Indiana Pacers have discussed a trade that, among other things, would involve Indiana sending guard Caris LeVert to Philadelphia for Simmons.
The Sixers obviously would require additional assets, and Begley noted: "It is unknown if talks between Philadelphia and Indiana have progressed beyond run-of-the-mill contact."
Interestingly, ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst referred to Indiana as a "sleeper" team in the pursuit of Simmons this past Friday:
It had been reported during the summer that the 76ers wanted an All-Star, draft picks, and pick swaps for Simmons, but that was before ESPN's Ramona Shelburne said last week that the three-time All-Star was willing to sit through the entire 2021-22 season to have his trade wish granted. The Sixers, meanwhile, reportedly intend to fine Simmons roughly $227,000 for each game he misses during the standoff.
ESPN reported Friday that Simmons received $8.25 million as part of his contract on Aug. 2.
For what it's worth, Simmons allegedly desires to only join one of three California teams, but such a club would have to match whatever Philadelphia's asking price becomes as this process plays out.
More must-reads: