The Philadelphia 76ers reportedly asked the Portland Trail Blazers for three first-round draft picks and three pick swap options as part of a trade package for point guard Ben Simmons.
Shams Charania of Stadium and The Athletic reported those deatils on Friday of that trade proposal, which was rejected by the Blazers:
The talks between the two franchises centered around a swap of Simmons for C.J. McCollum, but died due to Philadelphia seeking multiple first round picks. To this point, the Sixers have found little traction in Simmons trade talks.
Simmons didn’t report for the start of 76ers training camp last month and made it clear he “intends to never play another game for the franchise.” He continues to remain away from the organization until he gets traded, even if that means sacrificing his entire salary for next season.
Multiple NBA sources told Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer when the saga started the 76ers will have a “tough time” getting their preferred return for the three-time all-star who just came off a terrible postseason run.
“The kid said he’s not going back,” one executive said. “I’m not giving you what you’re demanding. They really messed this up.”
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The Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Minnesota Timberwolves, San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors have recently checked in on Simmons’ availability, per Pompey.
Meanwhile, the 76ers were forced to place the $8.25 million owed last week as part of the guard’s contract in an escrow and plan to deduct around $360,000 from that account as a fine for every game he misses while away from the team.
In the meantime, Simmons has reportedly packed and moved his belongings from his Philadelphia-area home.
Philadelphia begins the campaign Oct. 20 when it visits the New Orleans Pelicans.
