The Minnesota Timberwolves are rumored to have significant interest in Ben Simmons. While the 24-year-old’s trade value has never been lower, the Sixers are sure to get a healthy dose of trade offers this summer.
Simmons already has three All-Star appearances on his resume, and finished runner-up in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season. A great many franchises would benefit from his presence.
On that note, it makes complete sense for Minnesota to express interest. The Wolves have been trying (and failing) to dig out of the lottery for a hot minute. Karl-Anthony Towns will not commit to mediocrity forever, and the Wolves’ primary need — defensive versatility — happens to coincide with Simmons’ primary strength.
The Timberwolves are interested, and the Sixers have reason to sell. Could Ben Simmons end up in the frigid north?
The only issue is Minnesota’s prospective trade offers. Unless Towns or Anthony Edwards, the reigning first overall pick, are involved in negotiations, it’s hard to imagine a suitable package from just Minnesota. If anything, it may take a third team, or some intense creativity, to make things work.
That said, the NBA is a league where players and front offices alike carry power. If the Wolves truly want Ben Simmons, and are willing to pay the necessary price to get him, then there is doubtlessly a way to accomplish it. Daryl Morey and Wolves President Gersson Rosas have a long personal history, and would therefore know how to work together. Towns and Simmons are good friends.
The seeds are planted — can they grow?