Report: 76ers hope to trade Ben Simmons on night of 2021 NBA Draft

The Philadelphia 76ers are reportedly hoping to trade Ben Simmons during Thursday night’s NBA draft, though it’s unclear whether another team will agree to the Sixers’ apparent steep asking price.

Simmons was the top overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, though his league debut was delayed a year by injury. At times, Simmons has shown why he was chosen first, delivering excellent play on the court.

However, the 76ers’ continuing inability to advance in the postseason has been a source of frustration, and it appears that Simmons’ future with the team is very much in doubt.

During his four seasons with the Sixers, Simmons has averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.7 assists and 1.7 steals per game. That overall game, coupled with his unique 6-11 height in the backcourt, makes him an intriguing option for any team seeking to acquire him.

Yet, the Sixers haven’t had much luck in trying to deal him away.

One team that’s been prominently mentioned in a potential trade is the Minnesota Timberwolves, though that potential deal has thus far remained in the rumor category.