Surprise Team Emerge As Suitors for a Potential Ben Simmons Trade

Ever since Ben Simmons confirmed that he is not playing another game for the 76ers, several rumors have erupted. Recently various sources have revealed that a multi-team deal for Ben Simmons could involve the Denver Nuggets.

Now, HoopsWire’s NBA Analyst Sam Amico has tweeted that the feeling around the NBA is that Simmons’ trade will be finalized within the next week. And he further added that Denver Nuggets could be a possible trade destination for the pieces that get moved around in that trade.

Why would the Nuggets want Simmons?

It is understandable that the Nuggets would want Ben Simmons to potentially land up in Denver. As because of the absence of Jamal Murray, the Denver Nuggets faced an early exit in the playoffs last season. Considering that Jamal has an ACL injury, they predict him to be out for a long time. Further, it might take a long time for him to return to his peak potential.

Watch This Story: LeBron James, Kevin Durant & Other NBA Players Who Bagged Lucrative Endorsement Shoe Deals as Rookies

So the MVP Nikola Jokic needs a crucial secondary piece to make a deep playoff run. Simmons brings something that Aaron Gordon or Will Barton just can’t do alone, i.e. defense. His contribution on the defensive end could be the key that helps Jokic lead this franchise to more success. Jokic has certainly shown his prime capabilities last season.

However, he needs someone to fill the long-term absence of Murray. So a trade involving Aaron Gordon is possible. Since the athlete posted a below expectation 10.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per game in the 25 games he played for Denver.

What does this mean for Ben Simmons: Potential Trade Prediction

Here’s a potential trade that could see Ben Simmons on his way to the Denver Nuggets.

Denver Nuggets Receive: G/F Ben Simmons, G Shake Milton

Philadelphia 76ers Receive: G Monte Morris., F Aaron Gordon, F Will Barton, DEN 2026 1st Round Pick (Unprotected)

To begin with, the Denver Nuggets are already close to the tax line for the 2021-22 season, so in order to trade for Ben Simmons, they would effectively have to pay out matching salaries to Simmons’ $33 million deal for the 2021-22 season.

Not to mention, they’d have to satisfy the 76ers by providing enough skill for them to move Ben Simmons. It may seem implausible that Denver would let go of players like Monte Morris or Aaron Gordon. But Denver might be involved in this trade as a part of a multi-team deal as well. So the possibilities remain endless.

What do you make of the whole situation? Let us know.

ALSO READ: Lakers’ GM Rob Pelinka Explains How LeBron James & Co. Will Approach the Upcoming Season