The Philadelphia 76ers have officially placed Ben Simmons on the trade block. They reportedly want an All-Star caliber player in return. Whether they get their wishes or not is still a matter of wait-and-see. After all, Simmons' draft stock plummeted after that poor showing in the playoffs.
The Spurs can offer DeMar DeRozan, their lone superstar, in exchange for Simmons. However, the four-time All-Star will become an unrestricted free agent next season. A sign-and-trade could be done but the general consensus is that DeRozan is not worth a max contract anymore at this point in his career. Analysts believe that he'll likely get a mid-ranged salary, just like his offensive weapon of choice. Entering into this arrangement could cause headaches for the Spurs. As such, it would be better for them to concoct a different trade package that would benefit both sides.
The Spurs' Best Trade Offer for Ben Simmons
Spurs get: Ben Simmons, George Hill
76ers get: Dejounte Murray, Derrick White, Devin Vassell, 2022 Second Round Pick
The Spurs would have to give up their backcourt duo of Dejounte Murray and Derrick White. The two guards can be classified as under-the-radar prospects the Spurs developed into great role players. White and Murray averaged 15.4 and 15.7 points respectively last season. Yes, they are nowhere near All-Star levels. But their offensive production and basketball IQ is something Doc Rivers and his coaching staff could benefit from. Neither of which are averse to getting a bucket when the team needs it. This asset perfectly complements Joel Embiid's interior game. Both players are also just entering their primes, so the Sixers wouldn't be sacrificing their long-term future.
Simmons himself might have had enough of all the hate he's received since that mediocre playoff performance. A change of scenery is due. The Spurs, a winning organization with a legendary head coach, are the perfect destination for the Australian guard. If there's one coach who can unlock a player's full potential, it's Ben Simmons. The likes of Tony Paker, Manu Ginobili, and Kawhi Leonard were not lottery picks yet look at their stature in the game now. Coach Pop can work his magic on a player like Simmons, who has all the tools but lacks the mental fortitude to maximize them.
We're not saying that Simmons will suddenly become one of the best jump shooters right after donning the Spurs jersey. Rather, Simmons will put in more work in developing that stroke. More importantly, Popovich will instill that confidence in him. And while Simmons works on his shot, Pop will have no problem utilizing him well in his playbook. People tend to forget that Simmons' passing and vision are a step above most guards in the league. Popovich will have a good time coaching the young lad.
Popovich will also open his arms to embrace George Hill, whom he mentioned is one of his favorite players to coach. Hill actually spent his first three years with the Spurs. Popovich admitted to being “scared to death” when Hill was traded to the Indiana Pacers in the 2011 NBA Draft.
Spurs fans should definitely hope their squad at least puts some feelers out on trading for Ben Simmons. Whether they offer this trade package or not is a matter of wait-and-see. From the looks of it, not only will Simmons benefit from a change in scenery, but the Spurs will, too. Maybe a major roster shake-up is what they need to finally return to playoff contention.
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