Phoenix Suns Help Send Ben Simmons to San Antonio Spurs, get Thaddeus Young
Looking to rebuild for the first time in multiple decades, the San Antonio Spurs need something to start with, and a versatile player like Simmons grants them a better foundation than what they currently have laid out.
At the end of the day, Simmons still defends, passes, and attacks in transition as well as anyone. His confidence issues and jump shot still raise flags, but even with that, he resembles a player with a far higher ceiling than anyone else on the team right now.
Jalen Smith plays into San Antonio’s rebuilding objective as well. Being a stretch big with a high upside despite a disappointing start to his career, he and Simmons lay the groundwork for a potentially competitive team down the line.
To acquire them both, the Spurs essentially give the Suns and the Sixers exactly what they need, making this a highly beneficial trade for all parties.
For the Suns, they finally make good on the Thaddeus Young trade rumours. He comes over to supply Phoenix with more depth and veteran leadership.
But the Sixers take a larger haul, absorbing three players. From San Antonio, they secure Dejounte Murray to start as their point guard. He currently finds himself enjoying a career-year, averaging 17.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game. His name might not feel that large right now, but his numbers hold up well with other starting point guards, making him a solid replacement that keeps Philly competitive.
Doug McDermott joins him, giving Philly some much needed shooting help as a bottom-10 team in 3-pointers made this year.
To complete the deal, the Sixers also bring home Dario Saric, who played his best basketball during his earlier days with the team. Set to come back next year, he gives Philadelphia either a chance to slide Tobias Harris back up to the small forward spot where normally resides, or just add another solid depth piece that knows the team well.