While it’s common knowledge that the 76ers are exploring Ben Simmons trade, it may be a bit longer before a deal actually takes place.
Per veteran insider Marc Stein of Substack, a workable Simmons trade may not take place until Dec. 15, when the majority of players who signed free-agent contracts during the offseason become trade-eligible.
At that point, 76ers head of basketball operations Daryl Morey will have a much larger pool of available options.
For now, both Simmons and the 76ers are seemingly trying to make the best of an awkward situation.
Simmons has barely worked out with teammates, being thrown out of practice by coach Doc Rivers for failing to enter a drill last week. Simmons was suspended for the first game as a result. He reportedly has made it known he is not yet “mentally ready” to play.
But it seems everyone is working toward move forward until a deal is found.
“He is part of the team,” Rivers said, via Pompey. “I don’t know how many times I can say that. We have certain rules. Obviously, the other day that didn’t happen. But today was a good day.
“And I think … most people, we look at problems instead of the possibilities. I think if we focus on the possibilities in life in general, you have a pretty good chance of going to a good place.”
Simmons has also received vocal support from All-Star center Joel Embiid and forward Tobias Harris.
“Hopefully, they will figure out what’s best obviously for the team, because this is a business,” Embiid said. “We are trying to find ways to win.
“We have a big opportunity and like I always say, we are better with him. So I wouldn’t mind playing with him. I know my teammates also wouldn’t because at the end of the day, we are just trying to win.”
The Cavaliers, Timberwolves, Raptors, Spurs and Pistons are reportedly among as many as nine teams who have either pursued or are still exploring a Simmons trade.
Sources have told Hoops Wire they expect an eventual Simmons deal to involve multiple teams.
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