The Philadelphia 76ers have “opened up trade conversations” and “engaged with teams” regarding Ben Simmons, according to Shams Charania.
Teams inquiring about Simmons have been met with a high asking price, as the 76ers “want an All-Star-caliber player in return,” Charania adds.
Interest in Simmons, a three-time All-Star, remains high despite an underwhelming playoff performance where he was reluctant to shoot and struggled from the free throw line.
The 24-year-old scored a total of 19 points and shot 35 percent from the free-throw line in the final three games of the Eastern Conference Finals series against the Atlanta Hawks.
Simmons still has four years left on his five-year, $177 million contract that he signed in 2019.
The 76ers previously stated that they and Simmons had a plan to help him improve his skill development, specifically his shooting.
Back in June, discussions on Simmons’ future with the team began between the front office and Klutch Sports CEO/agent Rich Paul.
President of basketball operations Daryl Morey isn’t looking to trade Simmons for pennies on the dollar.
This past season, Simmons averaged 14.3 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists per game, all career-low stats.
