NBA Trades 2021-22: 1 trade target for every Central Division team

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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MAY 11: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball against the Indiana Pacers at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on May 11, 2021 in Indianapolis, Indiana, NBA Trades 2021-22: 1 trade target for every Central Division team. 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 Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Central Division NBA Trades: Indiana Pacers – Ben Simmons

After months of back and forth battles, there appears to be no resolution in sight just yet between the Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons. Of course, Simmons requested a trade following Philly’s playoff collapse last season, and the team has remained firm on their declaration that they would not trade him unless they get a king’s ransom in return. Among the teams that are interested in the All-Star, the Indiana Pacers have been rumored as a suitor from the beginning.

As noted in another report from Marc Stein (subscription required) this past offseason, the Pacers reportedly pitched a trade to the 76ers involving Simmons in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon and Caris LeVert.

The 76ers obviously turned down that deal, which many viewed as a mistake, given that it was likely one of the better offers they have received. Although the Pacers cannot include Brogdon in any packages right now after handing him an extension this offseason, they do have a handful of other pieces that could be enticing for the 76ers in a potential move.

A move like this is what the Pacers need right now. At 14-25 on the season, they have slipped all the way down to 13th in the Eastern Conference. Rather than scrapping the season and tanking, The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor noted that Indiana wants to make win-now moves to try and crawl back into the playoff picture in the East.

Adding a multi-time All-Star and All-Defensive player with versatility that Simmons brings could help turn their season around on impact.

Simmons is currently in the second year of a five-year deal worth $177 million, so acquiring him will not be cheap for the Pacers. Yet, if they can put together an enticing package, which they can, trading for him could be a move they see fit to help resurrect their sluggish season.