It has been an eventful Monday in the NBA as trade rumors continue to swirl around Portland Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard. Earlier today, it was reported that Lillard likely wants to play with Ben Simmons.
The Philadelphia 76ers star has not featured so far in the 2021-22 season, but apparently, the Portland Trail Blazers do not mind his scoring inefficiencies. However, Lillard has come out to debunk the rumors.
With all the uncertainty surrounding Simmons and the rumored trade, Ben was seen liking an Instagram post that was reporting the news. The Instagram post was by Bleacher Report and said, “Damian Lillard wants to play with Ben Simmons.”
The instability surrounding the Trail Blazers has made Lillard’s continued stay questionable. During the 2021 offseason, Lillard announced his loyalty to the franchise, saying he wants to win a championship with the Blazers.
GM and President of Basketball Operations Neil Olshey was fired recently after investigations found him guilty of workplace misconduct, and Joe Cronin has been announced as the interim GM. While Lillard will be patient for the franchise to get some stability but will be hoping for some changes to be effected.
According to The Athletic’s report, league sources revealed that Olshey attempted to get Simmons in the offseason, but the Sixers’ request was unacceptable. Nonetheless, the franchise believed partnering Simmons and Lillard on the backcourt will work even though much scoring will not come from the Aussie.
Lillard has openly come out to not confirm the rumors making the rounds, chucking it under “drama.” But it seems like Simmons likes the idea and is open to it. He still maintains that he is mentally unstable to play for the Sixers and has refused help from the franchise.
