Report: Celtics ‘have engaged in conversations’ about Ben Simmons

Report: Celtics ‘have engaged in conversations’ about Ben Simmons


By Scott McLaughlin - WEEI 93.7

Well, here’s a Monday morning bombshell for you. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Celtics “have engaged in conversations” with the 76ers regarding Ben Simmons and have “expressed interest” in the 6-foot-11 guard.

Before we go too crazy and start thinking the Celtics are on the verge of making a blockbuster trade, Charania adds that there has been “no traction” towards an actual deal yet and that “there remains no imminent resolution” to Simmons’ situation in Philadelphia.

Further complicating matters is that 76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey continues to hold out for a massive return. As it relates to the Celtics, Charania reports that any deal would have to include Jaylen Brown.

That would seemingly be a non-starter for Brad Stevens and company, but the Celtics going down the Simmons road at all is very interesting, if it's true.

Simmons, the No. 1 overall pick in 2016, has yet to play this season and has made it clear he wants out of Philly. His situation reached critical mass last postseason when his ineffective shooting and subsequent unwillingness to take shots proved costly in the Sixers’ second-round loss to the Hawks.

Star center Joel Embiid publicly criticized Simmons’ play and coach Doc Rivers couldn’t provide an answer when asked if Simmons could be the starting point guard on a championship team.

Simmons is currently seeking mental health treatment and has told the Sixers he is not mentally ready to play yet. Charania reports that the team “has become increasingly irritated” with the lack of clarity provided by Simmons, including when he might be able to play.

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