The Golden State Warriors have been one of the teams most heavily linked to Ben Simmons this offseason. However, the latest reports indicate that talks with the Philadelphia 76ers never truly took shape like the rumors would have you believe.

The latest piece from The Athletic's Anthony Slater indicates Sixers president Daryl Morey came to the Warriors with an offer in mind. But the report states that there wasn't anything else beyond that.

Via The Athletic:

The Warriors were among the teams Daryl Morey called during his initial round of over-the-top inquiries. That came before the draft. As has been reported, he asked for a package of Andrew Wiggins, James Wiseman, the seventh and 14th picks and two future first-rounders. There was never bargaining. There was only a decline and a hang up.

To say that the Sixers' requested package is pretty steep would be a massive understatement. They might as well ask the Warriors for Stephen Curry while they're at it. The package they requested had been rumored in the past, but the absence of further negotiations is interesting considering how much Simmons-to-Golden State speculation there has been throughout the offseason.

Beyond the actual trade discussions, Golden State has reportedly been “divided” on having Ben Simmons on the roster. Having two non-shooters in him and Draymond Green, who arguably fulfills the exact same role, makes it a tougher sell to use assets for.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
Klay Thompson and Chris Paul

Benedetto Vitale ·

76ers Joel Embiid on the bench from game one or game two of playoff series vs. New York Knicks with Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart smiling or laughing.

Drew Maresca ·

Golden State Warriors Guard Stephen Curry with former executive Jerry West

Fabian Diego Miguel de la Paz ·

Via NBC Sports Bay Area:

The Warriors, according to sources, are divided on the subject. Some see great potential in having two skilled players thriving in the ball-movement principles, especially in transition. Simmons also happens to be six years younger than Green.

Others, however, believe having two non-shooters on the court is too crippling for an offense, even with Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, to overcome, particularly in the postseason.

But regardless of fit, with no further negotiations beyond the Warriors‘ first call with Daryl Morey, the discussions on how Ben Simmons works with Stephen Curry and the rest is entirely moot.