NBA Trade Rumors: Raptors Turn Down Outrageous Offer Involving 76ers’ Ben Simmons

The Toronto Raptors’ presence was missing from the postseason for the first time in eight years. And now they have some difficult but significant decisions to make in the offseason to undo this next time. While their star player Kyle Lowry has been the center of attention right now, one can’t help but wonder what the future holds for the franchise. And it seems like they are heading towards a possible deal that will get them Philadelphia 76ers’ Ben Simmons.

Toronto Raptors interested in Ben Simmons

Much like the Toronto Raptors, Ben Simmons ended this season with a lot of criticism waiting for him. His inability to step up as one of the cornerstones of the Philadelphia 76ers, next to Joel Embiid, had fans, analysts, and everyone furious. In fact, his inefficiency might be one of the reasons that cost Philly a decent shot at a title.

While most would have thought that Simmons’ failure would lead to teams being disinterested in adding him to their roster, but not the Raptors. They haven’t forgotten that Ben is just 25 years old, holds a ton of potential, and is one of the most complete players in the league.

But when an offer was made by Philly, the Raptors refused to give up two of its top players.  “Two other sources said a proposed framework including Raptors guard Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, and a first-round pick for Simmons was rejected by Toronto,” Hoop Central posted on Twitter.

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Who are they willing to trade to the 76ers?

Philly has made it known that unless an All-Star caliber player is on the table, a trade for Simmons is not possible. So, who can the Raptors offer in place of Fred VanVleet and OG Anunoby? None other than, Kyle Lowry.

Lowry comes under the 76ers’ demands of an All-Star player but the only concern would be his age. It might be not as desirable as some young players. In fact, the Raptors have some competition as Minnesota Timberwolves have expressed interest in the point guard as well.

Philly is also us throwing Simmons in the mix as bait to attract even bigger stars to its franchise, one such being Damian Lillard. So after a rejected proposal, will the Raptors be able to make them an offer they can’t refuse?

READ MORE: REPORTS: Ben Simmons and Sixers Haven’t Talked Since Devastating NBA Playoffs Loss