Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons playing for a new team next season is “increasingly likely,” according to The Athletic’s Sam Amick.
The Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors and Washington Wizards are seen as the most likely landing spots for the point guard, Amick adds. However, the Wizards’ interest is contingent on Bradley Beal, who is weighing whether or not to demand a trade out of Washington.
Simmons would certainly serve as a franchise building block if dealt to the Wizards. Whether he makes for the best pairing with Russell Westbrook though is up for debate.
With Philadelphia’s asking price reportedly being an All-Star player, the Heat could have a difficult time landing Simmons. Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo are likely off limits in trade discussions, and it’s unclear how the Sixers feel about Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson and Kendrick Nunn.
The Raptors are an intriguing destination because Pascal Siakam is reportedly available for trade and he almost certainly would head to Philly in any deal for Simmons. Kyle Lowry might also be available via sign-and-trade.
According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, the 76ers haven’t been able to reach Simmons since the 2020-21 season ended, so, at this point, it seems like a trade is inevitable.