Current situation:

As seen in the media, the current 76ers drama has surrounded All-Star point guard Ben Simmons. Sixers fans, players, and staff members have expressed their feelings with performance and attitude both on and off the court, showing signs of discontent and concern. Ben Simmons has shown no interest in improving the biggest hole in his game: his jump shot. Since his rookie season, Simmons has not improved in the slightest way offensively. Sure, he has become one of the best defenders in the NBA, but his absence of offense truly hurts the team, especially during the postseason. He expressed that he has no intention of playing for Philadelphia anymore, and even requested a trade to a different team. With the Simmons buzz taking over the NBA, here are some possible trade destinations for the 25-year old point guard. 

Most realistic trading destinations:

• Indiana Pacers
  

The Pacers were the first and only team to make an offer for Ben Simmons. Their offer did not match the Sixers’ wishes, leading to General Manager Elton Brand declining the trade. As an active Sixers follower, I believe that the Sixers could get a decent package from the Pacers. Personally, it would be beneficial to acquire both PG (point guard) Malcolm Brogdon and SG (shooting guard) Caris Levert. Brogdon is known for his efficient method of scoring, while also being a solid defender. Levert is a strong scorer, as he has the ability to create his own shot from anywhere on the court. The addition of Levert would provide great spacing for the 5-position on the Sixers, being All-NBA center Joel Embiid. 

• Minnesota Timberwolves
  

The Timberwolves have also been linked with trading for All-Star Ben Simmons. They have, however, denied any connection to a possible trade. The Sixers could look to get back D’Angelo Russell, as well as other pieces (picks and young players) to make the deal happen. However, this may not be the best venture for the Sixers’ future. Ever since his all-star season with Brooklyn, Russell has not proved to be a solid enough PG for a championship team because of his lack of defense and his inefficiency on the court.

• Cleveland Cavaliers
  

The Cavaliers have been rumored to be incredibly interested in trading for Ben Simmons. They are missing defensive star-power and could use a 6’10 PG to fix that problem. PG Collin Sexton would most likely be the centerpiece of the deal, followed by a few first-round picks of younger players, yet this deal would not meet the requirements and wishes of the Sixers. Time is of the essence, though, and the Sixers will need to lower their price if they want to get a deal arranged. 

Most ideal/unrealistic destinations:

• Sacramento Kings
  

At this point, the Sixers trading Ben Simmons for star PG De’Aaron Fox seems quite unrealistic. On the one hand, the Kings would want to retain their franchise player in Fox and look to trade other assets. This would allow them to have two exceptional young players carrying their future. The Sixers, on the other hand, could only ask for De’Aaron Fox. He appears to be the only logical player that the Sixers could get back because of their similar values.

• Washington Wizards
  

Bradley Beal – the man who is criticized not for his basketball skills, but for his loyalty. Bradley Beal is one of the best players in the NBA and has played for the Wizards his whole career. People often judge him for ruining his prime with such a poor team. He has been linked in trades for the past several years but still denies any tie to another team. After trading away star teammate Russell Westbrook to the Los Angeles Lakers, Beal wants out of Washington, as they are now positioned to be one of the weakest teams in the league. If they do trade him away for Ben Simmons, it would allow them to properly rebuild the team around young players, using draft picks. This trade makes sense for both teams but still remains unlikely.

• Portland Trail Blazers
  

The Portland Trail Blazers have been a mediocre team for the past several years. They have never come close to a championship, even with NBA superstar Damian Lillard. Lillard’s ability to shoot, score, pass, and lead a team makes him one of the best point guards in the league. He can also be considered the most loyal player, as he has always clearly stated his special bond with the city and fans of Portland. If the Sixers were to trade Ben Simmons for Damian Lillard, they would most likely need to include fan-favorites like PG Tyrese Maxey and/or SG Matisse Thybulle. This is the best possible trade that the Sixers could pull off, but possibly the most improbable too.

As we approach the start of NBA season, the chance of Ben Simmons staying in Philadelphia increases. If he were to return, it would be interesting to see not only how the fans treat him, but how his teammates do. Although this may be the case, his teammates could be opposed to him returning, especially after Joel Embiid stated that Simmons is disrespectful to the organization. As fans observe the situation, many hope this feud and drama will settle down in the coming days, trusting that the Sixers will be able to finally win that gold ring.