No one can argue the talent that Sixers star forward Ben Simmons brings to the basketball court. He was one of the most highly sought after players out of college in recent memory. However, his inability to improve parts of his game during his NBA career, have caused an issue within the Philadelphia 76ers organization.

That culminated with Simmons failing to report to training camp. He had not spoken to the team since August when he informed them that he has no intention of playing for them again. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski broke the story back in September.

That has led to a standoff between the 76ers and Ben Simmons. It seems likes a certainty at this point that Philadelphia needs to move their star forward. The question is, what is his value and what can they get back in a trade. Recent reports have speculated on the Boston Celtics as a potential landing spot, but there are a few dark horses left in the race.

It's been reported by many news outlets, including Bleacher Report, that the 76ers and the Boston Celtics are in discussions for a trade for Simmons.

However, that deal appears to have hit a snag.

The Sixers' Daryl Morey has made it clear that in order for a trade with the Celtics to happen, it would need to include All-Star forward Jaylen Brown. The Boston front office has since squashed those rumors. That would not be a good trade for the Celtics.

So, what about these three possible scenarios:

Philadelphia trades Ben Simmons to the Houston Rockets. One big win here, the 76ers get him out of conference. That is always the goal for any GM when possible.

Houston is clearly at the beginning of a rebuild and Simmons has four years left on his contract. The Rockets have plenty of scoring depth, but lack on the defensive end. That is obviously Simmons' calling card.

The Rockets in return would need to send some of that draft capital they just acquired in the James Harden deal. When they shipped Harden to Brooklyn, they landed four unprotected first round picks, as well as four pick swaps. It might make some sense to ship off some of the shooting, along with a couple of those first round picks to start over.

Another dark horse scenario is Ben Simmons landing in Cleveland. The Cavaliers have surprised a lot of people this season, but are still in need of a wing player that can handle and distribute the ball.

Collin Sexton is an emerging point guard in the league. He is coming off his best season as a pro, averaging over 24 points per game. He would be the center piece but Cleveland would need to up the ante quite a bit more.

Former All-Star Kevin Love would make some sense for Philadelphia. He can provide more shooting on the perimeter around Joel Embiid. However, his $60 million price tag would need to be covered mostly by the Cavaliers.

Cleveland would also probably need to include some of their lightly protected first round picks. That probably would not have even been a thought. But with the team exceeding expectations early, it might make a lot of sense.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Ace Bailey in a 76ers uniform, a Spurs uniform, and a Hornets uniform
Ranking 3 best Ace Bailey destinations in 2025 NBA Draft
Paul George, Gillie
76ers’ fan Gillie says the harsh truth to Paul George’s face

The final landing spot that might surprise people is Indiana. USA Today detailed what this possible trade scenario could look like. The Pacers have a wealth of young talent. Between Malcolm Brogdon, Domantas Sabonis, TJ Warren, and others, there is plenty to like here.

Brogdon can do a little bit of everything. He is not the defensive player Ben Simmons is, but he is not deficient. He also is a decent passer. But what can he can upgrade is the Sixers ability to spread the floor. Embiid is the key piece on the interior.

Brogdon can help your perimeter shooting at the guard position. He also is very good with the basketball. Since entering the league, he is among the league leaders every season in least turnovers committed by point guards.

TJ Warren, were he to be included in the package for Simmons, would add front court depth. He would essentially be interchangeable with Tobias Harris. They are both wing players who can shoot and play defense.

I am sure Daryl Morey has his sights set on a bigger prize like Damian Lillard or Jaylen Brown. But it appears less and less likely he will be able to land another super star like that. But that does not seem to faze Morey, as he seems prepared to play the long game with Simmons.

Simmons has been facing pressure from the team to see the team doctors. They have also been imposing fines on Simmons for failing to do so. Simmons finally relented amid the mounting pressure.

There is no way in knowing how this is going to play out. But one thing is for certain, Ben Simmons playing elsewhere is the best outcome for everyone involved.

76ers fans might just be in for a long ride before that happens.