The No. 1 pick in any draft is always notable for a slew of reasons. In theory, it should determine where the best player is going to land. But another scenario could include a trade of the pick for a superstar. Let’s examine a potential trade of Ben Simmons to the Timberwolves in a deal that would send the No. 1 pick to the 76ers.
In the 2020 draft, there is not a consensus No. 1 overall talent, who is far and above the rest of the field. The fact that the lottery also bounced in favor of the Minnesota Timberwolves adds intrigue to the situation. Minnesota could use the pick on LaMelo Ball or Anthony Edwards, but the T’Wolves need veteran talent that a rookie won’t necessarily bring.
The 76ers underperformed in the playoffs, which led to the firing of Brett Brown. Philadelphia moved swiftly to hire Doc Rivers after he parted way with the Clippers, but Rivers’ ultimate vision for Philadelphia remains to be seen.
Simmons has come up in trade rumors before, and the Sixers have tried numerous times to get this roster over the top. It would be quite a roster shake up, but a willingness to part with Simmons could allow the Sixers to land the No. 1 overall pick.
