Educator wrote:"Wasting Embiid's prime"
This is an illogical argument. If they can't get a player or players who move the needle in return for Simmons, there is no reason to trade him. Trading Simmons for players who improve the team marginally does not help them. Philly does not have to give in just because Simmons is throwing a hissy fit. What would actually waste Embiid's prime would be if they traded an All-Star and All-Defensive player in the beginning of his prime for expensive role players. That would ensure a mediocre future. There's also no indication that Embiid considers this to be a 'waste of his prime'. Considering his personality, he is probably enjoying this.
And I don't buy that Simmons's value is dropping. His value is what it is. Everyone knows what kind of player he is and what that's worth.
I'd argue the other way. You aren't getting a star for Simmons. By not trading him you're just handicapping Embiid and wasting 31 million on nothing. If you at least bring in some guys that can play then you're getting something for him. I agree that Philly doesn't have to just give in but if this is his value then it's not changing if he doesn't play.
I'll challenge you to name the trade that you think would be fair for both teams that gets the Sixers what they want for Ben Simmons. I just don't see one where a superstar or even an all star comes back.