Instant analysis: Ben Simmons to the Celtics is a possibility

Ben Simmons
NEW ORLEANS, LA – APR 09: Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) dribbles against New Orleans Pelicans in the first half during a NBA game between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Philadelphia 76ers at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, LA on Apr 09, 2021. (Photo by Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire)

Add the Boston Celtics to the list of teams reportedly interested in the 76ers’ all-star guard Ben Simmons.

Another day and another trade rumor surrounding the Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons. Shams Charania of the Athletic has reported that the Boston Celtics have reportedly engaged in discussions with the Sixers about trading for Ben Simmons. Charania states that talks haven’t gotten far but the Celtics do have interest in the 6’11 all-star guard. 

The Athletic also reported that the Celtics would have to include All-Star forward Jaylen Brown in any potential deal for Simmons. Brown has improved every year he has been in the league and has taken an offensive leap this season. He is currently averaging 25.6 points and 6.1 rebounds per game and would be a huge help offensive for the Sixers if a deal was made. 

The Celtics are off to a slow start at 4-6 this season and have reportedly had internal turmoil. Celtics guard Marcus Smart has made comments about Celtic stars Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum not passing the ball to teammates, instead opting for tough shots over multiple defenders. A change of scenery for both Simmons and Brown could be just what each player needs. Simmons could become the playmaking wizard the Celtics need and Brown could be the second leading scorer and go-to down the stretch for the Sixers. 

Sixers fans would absolutely love this trade as they still feel the pain for the Sixers trade with the Celtics in 2017 for the number one pick in the draft, which ended up being used to draft Markelle Fultz. We don’t know how realistic trading in-conference and in-division for either of these teams will be, but if this deal can be done, it would benefit both franchises. Although the Celtics fan base more than likely disagree with the previous statement. It remains to be seen when and if Ben Simmons will be traded. If the Sixers continue to win with Simmons out of the lineup, expect Daryl Morey to be patient while waiting on the best deal.

Photo by Stephen Lew/Icon Sportswire