While the NBA free-agency frenzy is in full swing and many star players have changed teams, Ben Simmons is still a Philadelphia 76er.
But the Sixers did announce a move that has reignited the fanbase in hopes of the team acquiring Damian Lillard—the hiring of Lillard's trainer Phil Becker as a coaching consultant.
On his training site flowcode.com, here is Beckner's bio, which mentions Lillard specifically:
"Phil Beckner is nationally known for his success as a player development coach who works with many top NBA players and future draft picks. Phil spent over 10 years coaching at the highest levels of college basketball. He is most recognized for his developmental success with current NBA All-Star Damian Lillard, his time spent coaching with USA Basketball's Junior National Program, and being one of the most sought after development coaches for current NBA players."
The 76ers, while reportedly "open" to trading Ben Simmons, have consistently maintained they are looking for all-star caliber players in return and/or multiple picks.
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Lillard has been the biggest name mentioned in potential Simmons trades, but the Blazers guard has continued to state that he is not seeking a trade and plans to play in Portland for at least another season.
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Recently, Lillard got into a Twitter debate with a reporter who opined that Lillard is going to ask for a trade. Lillard tweeted, "I'm the ultimate source."
Lillard, 31, is currently on a four-year contract worth $176 million, ending in a player option for $49 million in 2024-25.
Simmons, 25, is in year two of a five-year, $177 million deal.