The Ben Simmons era in Philadelphia could be coming to an end and the rumors are flying.
According to Darren Wolfson of 5 Eyewitness News in Minneapolis, the Timberwolves “badly” want Ben Simmons.
“I texted with someone that knows Ben Simmons incredibly well, that has working knowledge of all things NBA,” Wolfson told SKOR North. “My text was, ‘How badly do the Wolves want to trade for Ben Simmons?’ This individual sent me a text. It was one word: ‘Badly.’ “
While Wolfson’s report is little more than that so far, acquiring Simmons would make a lot of sense for Minnesota.
The Aussie star would provide the Timberwolves an elite perimeter defender, helping the franchise solve one of its biggest weaknesses. The 24-year-old can guard point guards, shooting guards, small forwards and power forwards, making him a weapon if used correctly.
But it could only make sense on paper. The Timberwolves likely want to keep Karl-Anthony Towns and Anthony Edwards, making D’Angelo Russell the favorite to be moved for Simmons. Russell is close friends with Towns, which could hold up trade negotiations. Additionally, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, Simmons’ agent, will have a say in a potential trade and Minnesota may not be in his or Simmons’ plans.
Another trade possibility includes the 76ers moving Simmons to the Blazers for CJ McCollum. And the Knicks could even be an option, too.