With the Dec. 15 trade deadline for players who signed a contract during the offseason fast approaching, the market for Philadelphia 76ers Ben Simmons has been heating up, reports ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Much of the renewed impetus surrounds Wednesday, when 84 percent of the league’s 446 players become eligible to be traded. Right now, 65 percent are eligible to be moved. https://t.co/f2nYMp353z
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 10, 2021
Simmons has not seen the hardwood this season, citing mental problems after requesting a trade in August.
Off the court, the Sixers-Simmons saga has persisted. The organization has fined the forward/guard for missing games, and the three-time All-Star was thrown out of practice. The 25-year-old signed a $177-million contract in 2019.
The Australian has career averages of 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game.
Wojnarowski also reports that the Portland Trail Blazers have reaffirmed their commitment to Damian Lillard, saying the guard is unavailable.
The Portland Trail Blazers have made clear to the 76ers that All-NBA guard Damian Lillard is not available to be discussed in trade talks and franchise has no interest in moving him, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 10, 2021
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