Ben Simmons Drama: New Team Expresses Trade Interest

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Sixers and the Philadelphia fanbase are equally anxious to put the Ben Simmons saga behind them and focus on what appears to be yet another season of championship contention.

The smoothest path to that would doubtlessly be an immediate trade, as Simmons does not appear ready to suit up on the court anytime soon. But the latest report might be a difficult pill for some to swallow: the Boston Celtics are interested in Simmons.

The Athletic's Shams Charania first reported the connection Monday morning, noting that "talks have been fluid with no traction as of yet."

"Any potential Simmons deal with the Celtics would have to include All-Star forward Jaylen Brown, an ascending talent who is in the midst of another career season, averaging 25.6 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists," Charania writes.

Brown, 25, is the same age but not a similar player to Simmons: Brown shoots well and scores more, but doesn't rebound or pass the same way. It would be an intriguing pickup for the Sixers, one that would further remake their lineup from last year. Brown would slot in as a shooting guard or shooting forward, and point guard would remain in the hands of Tyrese Maxey and Shake Milton.

Trading Simmons to arguably their most hated rival would be about more than just the optics and the principle, however. The Sixers see the Celtics several times a year. If Simmons thrives in Boston, it could measurably hurt Philadelphia down the line.

Brown is out for the next week or two with a hamstring strain, but has been out to an even hotter start than his All-Star year last year, averaging 25.6 points per game.

Simmons, meanwhile, has been fined again by the Sixers after refusing to cooperate with team officials regarding his current mental health care.