The Ben Simmons saga continues to be one of the most intriguing storylines in this year’s NBA off season. Simmons, who had a mediocre year with the Sixers last season, has made it clear that he wants out of Philadelphia. According to several reports, he hasn’t stayed in touch with any of his teammates and even the management. Safe to say that Simmons wants out, ASAP. 

But what’s holding Sixers president Daryl Morey back from making a trade for Simmons is the package they receive in return. It’s fair to want another all-star back from a deal where the Sixers have to give up their own all-star but Simmons’ reputation hasn’t been the best. It’s also understandable why several teams would hesitate on acquiring Simmons, especially after what he showed in the playoffs. 

 

Nevertheless, the Sixers have to do everything they can to get rid of the bad juju with Ben Simmons before entering this season. Who wants to play in a locker room filled with an awkward vibe? The uncertainty around Simmons has the potential to affect the Sixers’ locker room big time this season similar to what happened with James Harden and the Houston Rockets last season. 

That said, Morey has to work double time now to get this Simmons deal done otherwise it’s another waste of Embiid’s prime years. Who can they pair Embiid up with? And more importantly, where does Simmons land?  Here are three teams that Philadelphia might actually be interested to transact with: 

Potential Ben Simmons trades

Portland Trail Blazers

Of course, Damian Lillard’s status with the Blazers is where the eyeballs are at. However, similar to Bradley Beal, Dame hasn’t asked out of Portland—at least upfront. Lillard for Ben Simmons could be considered lopsided for Portland hence why the Blazers will probably be asking more if a transaction between them and Philly actually happens. 

However, another name that should actually be talked about more is CJ McCollum. It feels like the Lillard-McCollum partnership may have run its course and maybe it’s time to consider trading Dame’s sidekick. The Blazers badly need defense and that’s where Simmons, an all defensive team recipient, can do his work best. 

Meanwhile, adding McCollum to the Sixers won’t make Philadelphia a prohibited team to win a championship but it’s definitely a step to building around Embiid. A combo guard who can shoot and is a threat on offense would definitely fit around Embiid. 

Washington Wizards

The Wizards are in this really awkward phase around Bradley Beal. First, they traded John Wall for Russell Westbrook and eventually traded the latter after realizing this duo didn’t work. Now, it seems like the Wizards are building around Beal but this current roster seems like another first round (or even play-in tournament) exit once again. What do the Wizards really want to do with Beal? 

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For as loyal as Beal is to DC (which is remarkable given today’s NBA landscape) It’s going to be tough to see him waste his prime years in Washington—where they’re rebuilding. The Sixers should find a way to trade Ben Simmons for Beal if Morey really wants an all-star in return. Brad could be the perfect pair for Embiid while Simmons could use his time with the Wizards to find his game once again and develop with no pressure. 

Golden State Warriors

Another intriguing team is the Golden State Warriors, who are relying on Klay Thompson to bring them back to promise land. It’s difficult to assume whether or not Thompson will return as the same player but what’s clear is the window of Golden State’s dynasty might be closing soon. 

The Warriors have to make a choice between building around their big three and maximizing Steph Curry’s prime years or to grow their young prospects and jive them with Draymond Green, Curry and Thompson. If ever they do pick the former, one option they can do is to trade for Ben Simmons. I know it sounds crazy and Warriors fans probably think I’ve lost my mind but acquiring an all-star to go along with their core isn’t a bad move. 

Like Darymond Green, Ben Simmons can actually play hardcore defense. He can playmake, get to the rim and somehow score. It’s not 100 percent the best fit but it could be better than waiting for the Warriors’ young guys to blossom.