The Brooklyn Nets have been mentioned as a possible third team that could get involved in trade talks centered on Damian Lillard, but there may be one issue — no one wants Ben Simmons.
A report this week floated the idea of a three-team trade between the Nets, Miami Heat and Portland Trail Blazers that would land Lillard in South Beach. In that scenario, the Blazers would likely receive multiple first-round picks in addition to absorbing the two years and roughly $78 million Simmons has remaining on his contract.
Simmons’ inclusion in the trade would be for salary purposes, but Heat insider Greg Sylvander reported on Wednesday that no teams seem to want the former No. 1 overall pick.
As Dame to Miami deal continues to be worked on, I’m told at least one challenge in negotiations has been the fact BKN wants to ship out Ben Simmons as part of this deal.
The sticking point being that no team is particularly interested in taking him so far, per source.
— Greg Sylvander (@GregSylvander) July 4, 2023
That is not exactly a shock. Simmons was traded to Brooklyn at the February 2022 deadline after a year-plus of drama with the Philadelphia 76ers. He has since battled numerous injuries and other problems and barely contributed on the court.
Lillard is reportedly determined to play for the Heat, but the Blazers do not seem impressed with what Miami has to offer.
