Why the 76ers Should Do It
If the 76ers decide to entertain offers for Simmons, Philly would presumably have its pick of offers containing draft capital, or young players, or stars.
In this hypothetical, the Sixers acquire Paul, which would be a short-term move, and Gilgeous-Alexander which could pay off in both the short-term and long-term.
Paul, 35, would give the Sixers a future Hall of Fame guard to run their offense, and even entering year 16, Paul still excels defensively as well.
The connection with Rivers may be the key for Philadelphia (whether the Sixers trade Simmons to acquire Paul, or a different package altogether). Rivers coached Paul for four seasons in Los Angeles, and as he takes on a new venture in Philadelphia, Rivers may want a proven veteran he trusts.
Gilgeous-Alexander, 22, saw a predictable jump in production last season after his trade from the Clippers to the Thunder. He averaged 19 points in 34.7 minutes per game for the Thunder, after averaging just 10.8 points per game in 26.5 minutes as a rookie.
Of course, it’s worth noting Rivers was also the coach in Los Angeles when the Clippers acquired Gilgeous-Alexander on draft night in 2018.
