Philly 'has its eyes set' on Damian Lillard, continues to shop Ben Simmons

So far, Simmons’ situation remains the same. While the 76ers have told teams they are comfortable bringing Simmons back for the 2021-22 season, rival executives believe it’s only a matter of when — not if — the All-Defensive team stalwart is moved.

...Philadelphia has its eyes set on Portland All-NBA guard Damian Lillard, sources say, but the Trail Blazers have fully focused on continuing to build around Lillard.

Source: Shams Charania/The Athletic

ANALYSIS: Charania also mentioned that the Sixers have discussed a Simmons trade with several teams, including the Toronto Raptors and Minnesota Timberwolves. However, he added that while Minnesota "have been motivated to find a deal for Simmons," the team would likely need to add a third trade partner.

In the report, Charania noted that Simmons was nearly moved to the Houston Rockets for James Harden last season in a deal that would have also included Matisse Thybulle and two first-round picks. As for Lillard, Charania reports that he is on track to enter training camp in Portland as he continues to evaluate the team's potential.