A potential Ben Simmons trade between the Sixers and Grizzlies
Sixers also receive: 2023 first-round pick swap, 2024 first-round pick (top-5 protected), 2025 first-round pick swap
The Grizzlies have several good young players, to the point where the roster is running out of space. Memphis is also ready to take the next competitive step. Ja Morant proved his mettle in the playoffs, and the Grizzlies have more than enough talent to swing a big trade. Ben Simmons would give them a second top-40 player to pair with Morant long-term.
While the fit isn’t perfect, there’s a good chance Simmons’ next team will not feature him as the only ball-handler. We have been wondering what Simmons would look like next to a dynamic halfcourt creator since his rookie year, and save for a fumbled half-season with Jimmy Butler, we haven’t seen him in that context.
Next to Morant, Simmons would have more opportunity to work off the ball, screening, cutting, and mismatch-hunting in the post. Simmons has struggled to embrace that part of skill set in the past, but his recent postseason flameout — combined with what is inherently necessary to survive next to Morant — could change his approach.
Morant is one of the NBA’s most electric playmakers, with dynamic open-court speed and a wizardly knack for manipulating defenses. He and Simmons would eat in transition, while a more defined halfcourt role could ultimately improve Simmons’ impact in the playoffs. For Memphis, Simmons takes them from fringe play-in team to a potential top-five seed.
This is a truly fascinating rotation.
- Ja Morant
- Desmond Bane
- Kyle Anderson
- Ben Simmons
- Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Eric Bledsoe
- Steven Adams
- Xavier Tillman Sr.
- Tyus Jones
- Ziaire Williams
Then, you look at Philly. While the Sixers lose out on top-end talent, they do gain a whole lot of depth. Brandon Clarke can fill in minutes at the four or the five, and is only one COVID-warped season removed from All-Rookie production. De’Anthony Melton is a capable two-way guard and one of the NBA’s most underrated players. Dillon Brooks is an excellent complementary scorer and a top-tier wing defender.
- De’Anthony Melton
- Seth Curry
- Dillon Brooks
- Tobias Harris
- Joel Embiid
- Danny Green
- Brandon Clarke
- Furkan Korkmaz
- Matisse Thybulle
- Tyrese Maxey
The Sixers would get three rotation-ready players, at least one of whom (Brooks) is a guaranteed starter. That depth would be quite beneficial, and the roster would fit much more seamlessly around Joel Embiid. Brooks can help cover for Simmons’ absence on defense, while Clarke and Melton anchor a suddenly deep supporting cast.