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For months now, the basketball community has waited to see the final result of the stalemate between Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers. The former No. 1 pick has yet to suit up in a game as he awaits a change of scenery. While the trade deadline is a date many have circled as the ultimatum for this saga, signs continue to point toward the three-time All-Star remains in Philly past Feb. 10.
Since this whole situation unraveled in the offseason, one thing has remained constant: Daryl Morey is not budging on his asking price for Simmons. As an All-Star-caliber player who's under a long-term contract, he's a valuable asset to any team. Because of this, Morey has his sights set on acquiring a high-level player to pair alongside Joel Embiid in return for Simmons.
Teams have shown interest in the 25-year-old point guard but have been unwilling to put a needle-moving player on the table to facilitate a deal. Because of this, Morey has remained patient instead of selling low.
This week, multiple reports have emerged regarding the Ben Simmons saga. On an episode of NBA Today, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reported this stalemate could drag on to this upcoming draft. In his latest news dump, Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer wrote the team's goal is aligned in waiting for someone the likes of Damian Lillard, Bradley Beal, James Harden, or Jaylen Brown to come available in the coming weeks or over the summer.
At this point, Morey is stuck in between a rock and a hard place. The trade market has not shaped up the way the Sixers hoped, and after remaining patient for so long, it makes little sense to take the best offer available now.
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With Joel Embiid playing like a top-10 player in the league, the Sixers feel their window for contention is open right now and into the future. Even if it means dragging this saga into another offseason, they need to keep their focus on the big picture. Making a trade now could make them better, but how much better?
Morey must keep his sights on this upcoming summer, as there will be multiple needle-moving players potentially on the table. Beal and Harden did not sign extensions and could be targeted in a sign-and-trade.
There is also Lillard dynamic to watch closely. If Portland continues to spiral with him on the pine after surgery, the All-Star guard might have a change of heart on staying with the Blazers.
In the NBA, superstar talent wins championships. With so many elite-level players coming off the books this offseason, there is a strong chance the Ben Simmons saga is far from over.
