It’s Chris Broussard, so take all of this with a grain of salt, but some tidbits RE: Benjamin David Simmons –

Thoughts:

  1. If Simmons does indeed hold out, we gotta credit PERK for being first on that.
  2. I would be absolutely stunned if Ben Simmons and Rich Paul said “yeah we’re cool with Minnesota or Orlando.” What NBA superstar has ever said that they would entertain a trade to any other team?
  3. Toronto would be interesting. FVV and OG Anunoby? Do the deal! (Toronto would never do that)
  4. In terms of “not developing Ben properly,” I mean, Jesus Christ. Brett Brown’s offense was tailored to Ben’s strengths. Running the floor. Half-court motion concepts. DHOs. That low/high pick and roll with JJ Redick. Ben Simmons is the reason Ben Simmons has not developed.
  5. Simmons and Embiid as a fit? It’s perfectly fine with shooters around them. The Sixers starting lineup had an insane net rating this year. The problem has always been Ben’s inability to contribute in the half court in late-stage playoff settings.
  6. McCollum is a good player. He’s not Damian Lillard, but most people are not Damian Lillard. Maybe you work a deal with Portland and another team and figure it out.

Again, it’s Chris Broussard, so take this for what it’s worth.