NBA Rumors: Kings’ Deal With Pacers Shuts Door On Any 76ers Trade Scenario

Any hope of possibly seeing Ben Simmons dealt to the Sacramento Kings has been practically scratched.

With the Sacramento Kings dealing Buddy Hield, Tyrese Haliburton and Tristan Thompson to the Indiana Pacers, the assets which previously interested the Philadelphia 76ers are no longer available.

Adrian Wojnarowski announced on Tuesday, February 8 via Twitter that the Kings have acquired Domantas Sabonis, Jeremy Lamb, Justin Holiday as well as a 2027 second-round pick for Hield, Haliburton and Thompson.

Haliburton was a name that the Sixers were reportedly interested in along with other assets.

Hence, the chances of Simmons getting moved to a new team by the NBA trade deadline have decreased.

The only option left is that the 25-year-old could end up with the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for James Harden.

This is a scenario that has long been in the rumor mill, particularly singling out the fact that Harden and Sixers’ president Daryl Morey hold close ties.

Sources tell ESPN that it may go down possibly before the trade deadline ends on Thursday, February 10 at 3:00 p.m. E.T.

As for the Kings, they added a couple of tested guards who can help out De’Aaron Fox–undoubtedly the new face of the franchise.

As for the Pacers, acquiring Hield and Haliburton appears perfect.

Haliburton could flourish even more under head coach Rick Carlisle, while Hield gets a chance to recall his old self.

Unfortunately, the addition of Thompson raises questions on his fit.

Although Thompson has proven to be an effective muscle in the paint, his role in the rebuilding plans of the Pacers is a bit off.

It remains to be seen if the one-time NBA champion will stick around or be bought out. That decision falls on the shoulders of Carlisle.

If the Pacers end up parting ways with Thompson, expect multiple teams trying to prepare for the playoffs to try and secure his services.