Though training camp debates of vaccination have entered the fray as topics of conversation recently, the Ben Simmons trade saga continues to dominate the NBA news cycle. The latest reporting from Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Keith Pompey tells us that, while the Sixers have been adamant about waiting for a hefty return package that has yet to reveal itself, some teams are still inquiring about the disgruntled point guard. Pompey lists six teams that have reached out to Sixers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey, offering deals that he clearly deems insufficient.
“A league source said the Minnesota Timberwolves, Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors and San Antonio Spurs are still inquiring about Simmons’ availability,” Pompey wrote on Saturday.
Obviously, none of these teams are on Simmons' list of prefered California destinations. These are six small markets who couldn't normally acquire a talent like Simmons via free agency. This unusual scenario in which Simmons is demanding a trade while still being locked into a four-year contract could be the only opportunity for these teams to grab a young star with some security (though there's no reason Simmons can't attempt the same sort of holdout stunt he's pulling now if he's sent to a team he doesn't like).
All six of the teams listed missed the postseason last year (Indiana had a brief play-in appearance). Simmons would definitely make any of them more competitive, bringing a defensive element and a transition boost that can help raise a team's floor. Still, if there's any chance that Blazers star Damian Lillard or Wizards star Bradley Beal become available, it seems as though Morey will continue to play hardball and hold out, even as the regular season approaches.
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