Since the end of the 2020-21 season, the name Ben Simmons has been buzzing in trade rumors. After dropping a rough playoff loss in game seven to the Atlanta Hawks, Simmons’ time with the Philadelphia 76ers could be coming to an end.
According to Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Simmons has told the team he no longer wants to be a member of the 76ers. He’s also told the Philadelphia brass he will not attend training camp, per Pompey.
Via the Philadelphia Inquirer:
In a meeting with the 76ers last week in Los Angeles, Simmons told team co-managing partner Josh Harris, president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, general manager Elton Brand and coach Doc Rivers that he no longer wants to remain a Sixer, according to multiple sources.
Sources said the three-time All-Star also does not intend to report to training camp.
If Simmons is involved in a blockbuster trade, the three-time All-Star guard could be eyeing a move to a team in California.
“Think about three months ago when the Sixers are willing to give up Ben Simmons. You are like, ‘Let’s see what we have to do to get him,’” said a Western Conference executive who spoke under the condition on anonymity to Pompey. “Now, the difference is Ben Simmons says he refuses to play for the Sixers. He wants to go to three California teams. There’s so much bad blood between him and the team.”
While California is home to four NBA teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers and the Sacramento Kings, Simmons could only prefer three of those teams.
With the Golden State’s roster boasting recent top draft picks with potential like James Wiseman, Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, the Warriors could be a team that builds a strong enough package to land the two-time NBA All-Defensive Team member.
However, the Warriors have reportedly already turned down a trade offer that included Simmons. According to Pompey, the Warriors rejected the Sixers’ steep asking price for Simmons.
As the start of the 2021-22 season quickly approaches, Simmons is a name to keep an eye on as the trade market heats up. For more on the Simmons trade saga, stay tuned to USA TODAY’s Sixers Wire.
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