The only real question surrounding the Philadelphia 76ers as they enter training camp in a few weeks is Ben Simmons. The Sixers have been taking trade calls on the 25-year-old, and the embattled star has had enough. He now wants out.
A ton of trade suggestions and rumors have circulated since Simmons’ trade demand went public, and this one is no different. The trade suggestions are always intriguing, and there is always some analysis that comes with it.
In the latest trade suggestion by Bleacher Report, Simmons heads to the Portland Trail Blazers, not for Damian Lillard, but for C.J. McCollum, a 2023 first-round pick swap and a 2024 first-round pick.
B/R on the deal:
For Philadelphia, McCollum is older, smaller and perhaps has a lower talent ceiling. However, his fit alongside Joel Embiid would be worlds better.
Over the last two seasons (and postseasons), McCollum has put up 26.5 points, 6.9 assists and 2.9 threes per 75 possessions when playing without Lillard. He’s shown he can dominate as a No. 1 ballhandler, and his outside shooting ability would keep defenders away from Embiid’s post-ups.
McCollum would be a huge help on the offensive end as he would provide some much-needed shot creation on this offense, but he would be a bit of a detriment on the defensive end. It would put more pressure on Joel Embiid and Matisse Thybulle to step up and replace what they will be losing in Simmons on the defensive end.
This post originally appeared on Sixers Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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