Assessing each team as Dec. 15th expands trade scenarios

Philadelphia 76ers

Players now eligible: Andre Drummond, Danny Green. Georges Niang

No surprises here, Daryl Morey wants to trade Ben Simmons and the former All-Star wants to leave Philly.

The problem is the 76ers GM asking price has been deemed unrealistic given Simmons ended last season seemingly afraid to shoot. While Simmons is still a top-notch defender who can run an offense and push pace he didn’t do himself any favors by electing not to play this season.

The Australian could’ve helped his own cause a lot faster if he’d been willing to come out and remind the other franchises of his rare talents.

Instead, he’s counting on teams wanting his services based on his former production. His decision not to play means numerous clubs who value character may worry his mindset could be as bad with them or worse could negatively impact their existing rosters.

Worse, Morey’s deemed asking price is exorbitant and a hard sell given the impasse. And while the GM and star seem engaged in a game of chicken the teams who might have interest know the longer they hold out it should benefit the buyer instead of the seller.

Philly navigated early injuries and COVID to stay within reach of a home court seed. The question is whether Morey is willing to hedge his bets on Philly making a deep run without making a move and more importantly how that decision will affect their star Joel Embiid.

In terms of the OKC Thunder having interest, Simmons fits the prototype of a Sam Presti player from a skills perspective. The issue is it’s not likely the talented guard would have any desire to play for or live in OKC. And with that uncertainty, it’s highly unlikely Presti would jeopardize the identity and culture he’s spent more than a decade building.