NBA Trades: One Ben Simmons trade for every NBA team

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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 19: Luguentz Dort #5 of the Oklahoma City Thunder looks on against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on November 19, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Bucks defeated the Thunder 96-89. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) /

NBA Trades: One Ben Simmons trade for every NBA team – Oklahoma City Thunder

Admittedly, no NBA trades between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Sixers make any sort of sense. The Thunder have $34.2 million in cap space and are flooded with young prospects.

The Sixers, looking to win as soon as possible, likely only want veteran help. Derrick Favors, the lone true vet on the team, does not fit a need in any realistic way. However, he is involved as the largest contract on the team this season at $9.7 million.

Trying to find the players (outside of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander) who could immediately make a meaningful impact for the Sixers is tough. Lu Dort has been a joy this season and is the easiest inclusion.

He is a hound on defense, replicating some of what Simmons would bring on that end. Kenrich Williams is a smart team player who should have a lengthy career as a role player.

All of this begs the simple question of what the point for the Thunder would be. Having cap space is the best avenue for them to absorb players teams are trying to dump and, by extension, add more draft capital to their collection.

Using most of that space to absorb Simmons, who fits poorly with Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, is not a Sam Presti move in any way, shape, or form.