Ben Simmons’ trade value is currently as unclear as to his future availability. Obviously, the two are closely linked. As it stands, Simmons has a back issue that apparently is exacerbated by psychological stress. We don’t care to speculate on the legitimacy of the former NBA All-Star’s problems.

We’ll only say this: They’re troubling.

That holds particularly true for the Brooklyn Nets. They surrendered James Harden to acquire Simmons. If he can’t play, they’re effectively a two-star team with a three-star team’s supporting cast.

Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving are unlikely to drag the Nets to a title without more help, and with Simmons’ pact on the books, more help is hard to come by.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: NBA Analyst Ponders Lakers-Nets Trade Featuring Ben Simmons

Trading Simmons, even at a discount, may be the way forward. The Brooklyn Nets won’t get the value they’d like for him, but any value is greater than zero.

Meanwhile, some team will take a risk on Simmons. Here are two trades that send him to San Antonio if the Spurs wish to be that team.