Ben Simmons’ name has dominated trade rumors since the Sixers’ playoff exit and even before that. Despite a hefty contract and an underwhelming offensive season, his defense and playmaking still make him a desirable asset. Many rebuilding teams could use his skill set to fit alongside their young cores. And the Minnesota Timberwolves are apparently among this group. When asked about their interest in Simmons, a source close to the Timberwolves said that they “badly” want to trade for him.
Why Minnesota wants him
Simmons’ shooting woes have been well-documented in recent weeks. But his strengths are probably more impressive than people are willing to discuss at the moment. And his fit in Minnesota would make a lot of sense. Minnesota has three great offensive threats right now, especially Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns. D’Angelo Russell fits that bill as well but would almost certainly be heading to Philly as part of a potential deal. But it appears that the front office in Minnesota believes Simmons could be the piece that finally turns the T-Wolves into winners.
Towns and Edwards both like to operate from the perimeter. This would finally give Simmons the clear driving lanes he often lacked in Philly with Joel Embiid. Both guys could certainly benefit from playing with a good distributor to make their lives easier. And both of them, especially Towns, are subpar defenders. Simmons has displayed the ability to guard just about anybody, evidenced by his second-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting.
He can focus on the defensive side of the ball, scoring in transition and facilitating for others in the half-court. His offensive woes would likely be less damning. And perhaps most importantly, Simmons should go to a smaller market without title aspirations. This would allow the 24-year-old to develop without such constant media pressure. If Minnesota can put together an enticing enough package for Philly, the deal makes a lot of sense.
Why it might happen
People in Philadelphia appear fed up with Simmons. Superstar Joel Embiid mentioned Simmons’ play in a postgame press conference as a reason for the Sixers’ loss. Doc Rivers said he didn’t know if Simmons could be a point guard for a championship team. Philly fans (not known for their forgiveness) want him gone. The national media has called him soft and said he has a bad mindset. And it appears that many believe his time in Philly has run its course. If that’s the case, then the Sixers need to find a trade destination for Simmons, and if the Timberwolves are this eager, Philly should capitalize.
Why it might not happen
The real question is, can the Timberwolves create the best trade offer for Simmons? The primary competition as of now appears to be the Portland Trail Blazers. While neither side has said anything about a deal, there is turbulence in Portland. After eight seasons of stability with the same coach and superstar, things have blown up. Terry Stotts is gone. There are rumors Damian Lillard might want out if the roster does not improve.
The most logical swap that has been proposed is CJ McCollum for Ben Simmons. The Blazers need a better defender and facilitator. The Sixers need a better offensive weapon. Both are on big contracts. It makes a lot of sense, so Minnesota has to find a way to sweeten their deal. The T-Wolves do not have a draft pick this year, which could hurt their cause. They would likely have to send Russell and another solid contributor to the 76ers, who are in win-now mode with Embiid in his prime.
