Charles Barkley didn’t hold back recently when asked about the Ben Simmons trade saga. The former Sixer was quick to criticize Philadelphia 76ers President Daryl Morey and their front office for not acting sooner.
The NBA trade deadline less than a month away and trade rumors are heating up once again. It’s been several months since Simmons made it clear that he wanted out but the Sixers are refusing to budge on their asking price.
There’s some good trades out there, but the Sixers are being stubborn and wasting Joel Embiid’s great season. They’re just being stupid. Just being stupid.
Barkley even took the time to name possible trade partners for Philadelphia. He listed Boston, Houston and Sacramento as potential suitors for Simmons. All three teams have crept up in trade rumors throughout the season.
Sacramento are current favorites to land the wantaway star. The Kings have maintained their interest in Simmons ever since he became disgruntled during the offseason. Kings guards De’Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton who were previously off-limits in trade discussions have now become available.
Sacramento also appear to have the appetite to take on Tobias Harris and the remainder of his $180 million contract – a move which would help the Sixers immensely. Daryl Morey has his eyes set on signing James Harden this summer but he needs the cap space to do so. Moving Simmons and Harris off the books would free up $69 million for next season.
Sources close to Simmons have revealed that he’ll sit out the remainder of the season if he isn’t traded. The guard was an All-Star for three straight seasons but it looks like his Sixers days are numbered. Even if Simmons miraculously decided to suit up, Barkley was adamant that the fans wouldn’t forgive him.
He’s never going to play another game in Philly. The fans won’t forgive him. They have to make a trade. You have to move on from a bad relationship.
The question remains whether it’s wise to trade Simmons now or wait until the summer. Barkley clearly thinks the Sixers should make a move sooner than later. However, if they’re committed to landing an All-Star, they may have to wait until the offseason.
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