NBA
Ben Simmons could leave the 76ers; what are his possible destinations?
Sources close to the player claim he has told the Philadelphia franchise he wants to leave and has threatened not to show up for training camp.
Right after the Philadelphia 76ers were eliminated from the playoffs last season, one name was marked in red, team star Ben Simmons. The guard was heavily criticized by the media and even the organization for not stepping up when the team needed it.
The team heavily hinted at the option to trade the player to other teams. There was talk about a possible trade that would involve Russell Westbrook, the Washington Wizards, and even the LA Lakers. But the apparent talks were broken down due to the high asking price by the Sixers.
Simmons wants out
Now that training camp for the Sixers is coming up, the still Philly player, apparently, and according to the Philadelphia Inquirer, has threatened to skip camp if he is not traded. Adding another chapter to the lost love story between the player and the franchise.
Simmons feels that he is a superstar and is above trade talk. Thus the possible deals speculated over the summer have infuriated the player and is reportedly fed up and wants to leave the club. In addition, the other Philly superstar Joel Embiid was said to be happy with the departure of the guard.
Possible destinations Portland or Golden State
Portland Trail Blazers: This option is the most likely to be the best for both teams. The Sixers would send Simmons to Portland, and the Philly team receives CJ McCollum. The Sixers have waited for Lilliard to request a trade from Portland, but this doesn't seem like it will be happening. In addition, Simmons is not of the same caliber trade as Lilliard, so it is unlikely the trade will happen. But a swap for shooter CJ McCollum can benefit both teams.
Golden State Warriors: Simmons preferred option is one of the California franchises. At the moment, the Lakers are not likely to make a play for him, they have a pretty much set roster, and with players like Carmelo and Rondo on the team, Simmons barely has any options. The Clippers, like the Lakers, are almost done with their summer additions, thus the only other option is the Warriors.
They could use Simmons's defense as the shooting is already taken care of by team star Stephen Curry and back from injury Klay Thompson. With Simmons on the team, they are a serious title contender.