“No untouchables” for Cavaliers in Ben Simmons talks

According to reports, the Cleveland Cavaliers do not have any players classified as untouchable in a possible trade for Ben Simmons.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are reportedly continuing to be in the mix for Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons. This comes after an update just a few weeks ago that stated pretty much the same thing. The difference here is that there is a bit more clarity about what the Cavs are willing to offer. In a report from Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com, that’s pretty much anything.

“Sources maintain the Cavs don’t have any “untouchables.” However, prized rookie Evan Mobley and rising point guard Darius Garland are closest to that designation. The likelihood of either player being moved is incredibly low. That leaves Collin Sexton, Isaac Okoro and future first-rounders to help cajole a Simmons deal.”

The close to untouchable designation for Darius Garland and Evan Mobley is understandable. The Cavaliers just drafted Mobley and Garland has shown he can be a foundational pillar for the franchise. As far as Collin Sexton and Isaac Okoro are concerned, they are not the caliber of players that should be a dealbreaker for Cleveland. Sexton looks to be a great sixth man off the bench type, but alas he is not best suited to be in a starting role. As far as his contract status if concerned, Cleveland has not shown a willingness to sign him to an extension just yet. Less is known about Okoro and his career trajectory, but it is clear he is a good defender while his offense is a work in progress.

At the end of the day the Cavaliers have a decision to make. Clear some of the clutter on the roster and acquire what would be instantly the best player on the team in Ben Simmons or continue the path they have been down the last few seasons which has not provided anything resembling success. The former seems much better than the latter even though a lot more work would be needed to make the jump to playoff contender.