Ben Simmons ‘More Than Interested’ In Playing For Different NBA Franchise, Agent Rich Paul Trying To Set Up A Trade

(via Cleveland.com)

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Ben Simmons' future is far from settled at the moment. There have been rumors circulating around about the Australian point guard since the 2021 NBA Playoffs came to an end. For the most part, it appears as though Simmons wants to leave the 76ers, and the franchise is open to getting rid of him. 

But the 76ers have lofty demands to get Simmons, demanding another All-Star caliber player in return. Given how low Simmons' draft stock is at the moment, they may have to settle for less than that in order to offload the All-Star.

Reports emerged earlier today that the 76ers expect to keep Simmons next season unless they get a chance to land Damian Lillard through a trade. But it appears that Simmons would rather have a fresh start in a different NBA franchise. According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, Simmons has a lot of interest in joining a new team. 

Because of this, his agent Rich Paul has been speaking with different NBA franchises in order to help broker a deal. At the moment, they haven't been able to convince a team to give up big assets in exchange for Simmons.

"Simmons, on the other hand, appears more than interested in playing for a new team. He expects to be traded and has not personally been in close contact with Morey, Embiid, or head coach Doc Rivers this offseason, sources told Bleacher Report. Simmons' representation has further canvassed rival front offices, gauging their interest in creating a new home for the 25-year-old All-Star and this year's runner-up in Defensive Player of the Year." 

The 76ers have been shopping Simmons to different teams during this offseason. They came close to accepting an offer from the Warriors but demanded a lot from them to give up Simmons. The Warriors declined the proposed trade and decided to keep their assets. If the 76ers do not plan to have Simmons involved in the next season, it may be in their best interest to get rid of him. 

But if the front office continues to put steep demands on him, they may have no choice but to keep him. Simmons clearly doesn't want to stay in Philly anymore, as he has cut off communication with members of the franchise. So it may be best for both parties to part ways now.