There’s been a lot of talk, especially after the Sixers‘ post-season collapse but it seems Ben Simmons is officially available for trade.
It seemed a question of when not if the Sixers would look to deal Simmons. There has long been speculation of his fit next to Joel Embiid and even more at his commitment to the game of basketball.
While questioning Simmons’ commitment itself is a clear weak argument, it’s a loud argument not just in Philadelphia but across the nation. Simmons has been criticized time and time again for his lack of offensive growth and his lack of aggression this postseason seemed to be the final straw.
It’s not shocking that the Sixers are potentially looking to move in another direction. The word potentially is crucial because the team will not just give Simmons away. Many have speculated that Simmons’ value has deteriorated drastically and while his value is certainly not at it’s peak, it’s be made clear that the Sixers think he still has plenty of value and they’re not alone in that thought.
The team is allegedly seeking an “All-Star-Caliber” player in return and that’s not an outlandish ask either for a player as young yet decorated as Simmons. What exactly does “All-Star-Caliber” even mean though?
While the obvious names are Damian Lillard, Bradley Beal, and Zach Lavine who are all established All-Stars. The word “caliber” is what’s clear here though. When speaking of an “All-Star-Caliber” player one is likely talking about either a young player with clear All-Star upside, or more likely in this case, a “fringe All-Star”.
Tobias Harris for instance is a player considered to be a “fringe All-Star”. While he’s never been named to an All-Star team, his numbers have him in the conversation every year. Other players also in this category are Portland’s CJ McCollum and Indiana’s Malcolm Brogdon.
In that case the Sixers’ would likely look to add more than just those players, it’s just a matter of if the other team will play ball. Time will tell what exactly the Sixers will get for Simmons but you can expect it to be a good package, just not Damian Lillard good.
