The New York Knicks came into the 2021-22 NBA season with the hype of being a potential NBA Finals contender. Unfortunately, they have been unable to live up to that hype and could look to make some changes ahead of the trade deadline. Could Philadelphia 76ers disgruntled star Ben Simmons end up being a potential trade target for the Knicks?
Simmons has been talked about as a likely trade candidate before the deadline for months now. His situation with the 76ers has not improved since the beginning of the year.
Looking at the situation, the Knicks could be poised to make a deal for Simmons. He would certainly looked good in New York as a focal point of the franchise moving forward. However, how could the Knicks actually pull off a deal with the 76ers for Simmons?
Let’s take a look at a trade that could make that kind of a move work.
New York Knicks Receive: G/F Ben Simmons, G Isaiah Joe
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Evan Fournier, G Kemba Walker, F Obi Toppin, NYK 2022 1st Round Pick (Unprotected), NYK 2023 1st Round Pick (Swap, More Favorable to PHI), NYK 2024 1st Round Pick (Top-10 Protected, otherwise 2025 1st Round Pick Unprotected), NYK 2026 1st Round Pick (Swap, More Favorable to PHI)
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On the outside looking in, this is a trade that could be a win-win for both teams involved. Even though the Knicks would be giving up a lot of talent and picks, a guy like Simmons would power them back to being serious contenders. A “Big Two” of Julius Randle and Simmons would be a good duo.
For the 76ers, they would be adding by subtracting with Simmons, who has shown no interest in playing for the team. They also would get two quality guards in Fournier and Walker. Toppin is the kind of player who could develop into being a very key role player in the future for Philadelphia.
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Granted, this is all speculation and the Knicks and 76ers actually working together on a Ben Simmons trade may seem unlikely. But, the deal could work and make sense for both parties.
Expect to continue hearing rumors surrounding Simmons as the trade deadline draws closer. The 76ers and Knicks both will look to make moves and coming together on this big trade might be a great swap to make.
