NBA Trades: One Ben Simmons trade for every NBA team – Washington Wizards
If only Bradley Beal was on the table, this deal would be significantly easier. For the time being, the former All-Star appears to be finally content with a stable coaching and front office situation.
Once he signs on the dotted lines, the franchise can fully commit to building around him for the long haul. If there is some sort of unspoken promise (because tampering like that would never happen), perhaps a move for Simmons makes sense.
Davis Bertans has become one of the true albatross contracts in the league, but maybe in a new city, he would rediscover the shooting touch that got him paid in the first place. That happening (beyond any sort of necessary draft pick compensation) is what would make this worthwhile for the Sixers.
Thomas Bryant and Rui Hachimura have yet to play this season and are weird fits on the current Sixers roster. However, they both should have trade value elsewhere and would allow the Sixers to close this chapter of drama and still have trade options down the line.
This Ben Simmons trade is not about immediately making the 76ers much better. For this to work, forecasting other dominoes falling in the latter months is key. Daryl Morey has already made it clear this is a multi-year plan anyway.