Much of the focus around the league as the NBA trade deadline approaches will be on the Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons, who still hasn’t appeared in a single game during the 2021-22 season.
The Sixers’ desire to land a dynamic talent like Damian Lillard, James Harden, Bradley Beal, or Jaylen Brown in exchange for Simmons is no secret. It’s infrequent for a talent of that caliber to be available for a prospective suitor to pursue, especially midseason.
As a result, nothing new has occurred in months between Simmons and the Sixers. Until a player like Damian Lillard becomes available, that likely will continue to be the case. While he has yet to ask out of Portland, it’s important to continue to monitor the situation.
The Portland Trail Blazers have struggled mightily this season but Lillard has continued to make it a point to reaffirm his commitment to the organization in public comments. He recently underwent abdominal surgery and is soon going to be due for a massive new contract extension.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Latest NBA Trade Rumors Surrounding Hawks’ Ben Simmons Pursuit
The Atlanta Hawks have also struggled this season and have become one of the teams most linked to Simmons as a potential suitor. The outlook to get a simple deal done is bleak given there’s overlap with John Collins and Tobias Harris if the Sixers were to acquire him. As a result, a bigger deal would be needed.
A recent trade scenario from Chad Ford of NBA Big Board would involve the Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Philadelphia 76ers and include Ben Simmons and Damian Lillard along with Tyrese Maxey.
