With the trade deadline approaching, much speculation has arisen about the future of Ben Simmons. After a series of back and forth maneuvers between his camp and team President Daryl Morey, it’s highly unlikely he will ever play for the franchise again.
Under normal circumstances, Ben would have been traded well before the season began. Instead, the team continues to hold out for a premier package that may never arrive.
In a report by Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, one offer by the Detroit Pistons was revealed which apparently included lucrative wing player, Jerami Grant. The Sixers refused the package, despite overwhelming belief it’s probably the best they’ll get.
The situation in Philadelphia hasn’t changed since July: Daryl Morey’s front office has thus far rebuffed any Simmons offer that hasn’t included an All-Star-caliber partner for Joel Embiid who’s on the Sixers’ wish list.
The Pistons’ package of Grant, Saddiq Bey, Kelly Olynyk and a first-round pick, for example, was not met with much enthusiasm by Philadelphia brass, league sources told B/R. But when that deal construct began to circle around rival NBA front offices this fall, it also alerted teams to Grant’s surprising availability.
As Simmons is still unlikely to be moved, Grant has attracted around a dozen suitors. With apologies to Myles Turner, “He’s the grand prize of this deadline,” one team strategist said.
Such a deal would finally bring a true star to the rebuilding Pistons. Ben Simmons could get the free start he desperately needs.
More importantly for Philly, it would bring a solid and versatile two-way star next to Joel Embiid, who is currently fighting to keep his Sixers near the top of the Conference.
This season, Grant is averaging 20.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game on 41.4% shooting. He has been described as the ‘grand prize’ of the 2022 trade deadline.
If the Sixers aren’t satisfied with him, one has to wonder just how high their aspirations go.
