Why the 76ers Should Do It

This hypothetical trade only makes sense if the Sixers feel that it’s Joel Embiid, not Simmons, that will be the centerpiece of the team moving forward.

Philadelphia would immediately acquire a new starter in the backcourt in LaVine, and Young is a widely respected veteran forward.

A note on the two first round picks: If the Bulls had the first pick in the 2020 draft, this would be a different discussion altogether. Even the second pick probably carries enough weight on its own to avoid parting with an additional 2021 pick.

But at pick No. 4, with three consensus top picks likely to come off the board before Chicago’s pick, perhaps the Sixers are able to grab another future pick from Chicago.

If the Bulls trade out of No. 4 — whether it’s for Simmons or something completely unrelated — we’ll see how other teams view the value of that pick.

With the three consensus top prospects, LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards and James Wiseman likely gone at No. 4, the Sixers may want another pick. The Bulls, of course, could refuse.

But if the Sixers were able to snag this package from Chicago, it’s worth considering if they decide to field offers for Simmons. Joel Embiid won’t be going anywhere.