The Philadelphia 76ers maintain their position to handle the shaky and complicated case with Ben Simmons. After a dramatic offseason where both sides were in the spotlight of basketball discussions, plenty of rumors are still swirling wherein the Aussie star and the ball club could part ways – an ending that would put things to rest in the never-ending contemplation amongst Philly faithful.
Aside from the Portland Trail Blazers, where superstar Damian Lillard reportedly expressed his desire to play with Simmons, there is another Western Conference franchise that could be secretly on the radar of pursuing the disgruntled point forward.
And that is the San Antonio Spurs.
As published recently by NBA insider Marc Stein, the 25-year-old Simmons would welcome a possibility to play in Texas, and the primary factor of that idea is none other than head coach Gregg Popovich. To be fair, Simmons wearing the Spurs uniform was already murmured from the past.
“The Spurs also know that Popovich’s presence still resonates with many players more than anything else San Antonio has to offer as a destination. Example: I’ve heard that Ben Simmons would welcome the opportunity to play for Popovich if the Spurs found a way to acquire him.“
In spite of possible discussions, Stein pointed out that the Sixers management is still committed to waiting for the best opportunity to trade for Lillard or pull the trigger in acquiring a legitimate star if a swapping scenario is the only choice with Simmons.
“San Antonio’s efforts to crash the trade hunt for Simmons have been well-chronicled, but Philadelphia remains intent on holding out for Portland’s Damian Lillard or another proven All-Star in a Simmons swap.”
General manager Daryl Morey and Philadelphia remain patient to wait for an explosion around the Blazers hub centered around Lillard. But, if things won’t go well as planned, he might consider looking around for some offers, and possibly on San Antonio’s table wherein the silver and black could offer the two-way rising star, DeJounte Murray.
As such, Ben Simmons, under the wings of a legendary mentor like Gregg Popovich, would be an enticing condition to follow. Not to mention, the Australian sensation might possibly shatter those notorious shooting woes with the help of the well-known Shot Doctor, Chip Engelland.
No one knows what will happen in the following days. But, certainly, the 76ers must be considerate enough on the possibilities they can gain outside from those wet dreams with Lillard.
