Trade Rumors: Revisiting pros and cons of a Ben Simmons trade

Revisiting pros and cons for Cavs of a Ben Simmons trade: Cons

Ben Simmons might be devastating deployed as a small-ball center, a look the Philadelphia 76ers were incredibly reluctant to try out. Stuck next to Joel Embiid the spacing was cramped, as Simmons is the epitome of a non-shooter, taking as many 3-pointers as George Mikan.

Unfortunately, a similar problem would exist with the Cavs. Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen seem entrenched as the frontcourt of the future. For every bit that Simmons would be an exceptional fit defensively with that pairing, on offense the spacing would be absolutely non-existent. How would Garland and Allen have space for a pick-and-roll if teams are sagging off of Isaac Okoro and Simmons?

In last year’s playoffs Simmons showed how his reticence to shoot (from the perimeter or at the foul line) can harm a team, as he refuses to shoot when the situation demands it. The combination of Garland and Mobley is so good this team expects to be a perennial playoff team for some time. A Simmons who shies away from shooting will harm the Cavs just as it harmed the Sixers.

Finally, Ben Simmons makes $31.6 million this season and $33.9 next year, for a grand total of $110 million or so the Cavs would have to pay. It’s possible he earns that contract, but this team is deep with young talent. The more young talent, the more you have to pay them. Garland, Okoro and Mobley will all be up for next contracts soon. Will the Cavs trade for Simmons knowing it will lock them into the luxury tax?

There are reasons to make a Simmons trade, but there are plenty of reasons not to. With Mobley just a rookie and none of their core older than 23, this team can be patient. If the 76ers are open to a lowball offer, perhaps they pounce. If not, it makes sense to hold out and see how this group develops without locking it into an expensive spacing nightmare.