LOS ANGELES, CA — In what’s shaping up to be the most jaw-dropping hypothetical trade of the NBA offseason, Bill Simmons, founder of The Ringer and one of the league’s most influential voices, has proposed a bombshell move: Joel Embiid, reigning MVP and cornerstone of the Philadelphia 76ers, would be traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for a package headlined by Rui Hachimura, Dorian Finney-Smith (DFS), Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, and two unprotected first-round picks.
The idea, floated on the latest episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, has instantly ignited debate across the basketball world. Though not yet based on official team negotiations, Simmons framed the trade as a “sensible reset” for both franchises amid growing questions about Philadelphia’s long-term direction and the Lakers’ urgent push to win another title before LeBron James retires.
“This isn’t a joke,” Simmons said. “If the Sixers feel they’ve hit a ceiling with Embiid, this is the time to pivot. And for the Lakers, it’s now or never — Embiid changes their ceiling overnight.”
The Proposed Deal:
- Los Angeles Lakers Receive:
Joel Embiid (C) - Philadelphia 76ers Receive:
Rui Hachimura (F)
Dorian Finney-Smith (F)
Gabe Vincent (G)
Maxi Kleber (F/C)
Two unprotected first-round picks (2027, 2029)
From the Lakers’ perspective, pairing Embiid with Anthony Davis would give them perhaps the most formidable frontcourt in NBA history, assuming health. While the fit raises questions — especially with both stars being injury-prone and traditionally operating best near the basket — Simmons insists the upside outweighs the risks.
“You get Embiid and Davis on the same team, you’re immediately in the Finals conversation,” he said. “Even if it’s just a two-year window.”
On the Sixers’ end, the deal would signal a full-scale retool. With Tyrese Maxey ready to take over as the team’s offensive leader and ample cap flexibility on the horizon, Philadelphia would gain depth, defensive versatility, and two critical future picks — assets that could be flipped for another star or used to build organically.
NBA insiders, however, are skeptical that either front office would pull the trigger on such a dramatic move. Embiid is under contract through 2027 and remains deeply tied to Philadelphia’s identity. Yet, with another early playoff exit and the team still unable to break past the second round, patience is wearing thin.
Meanwhile, the Lakers would be parting with nearly all their tradable assets in one swing. While Hachimura, Vincent, and Kleber have been role players, Finney-Smith brings elite perimeter defense, and the draft capital would be a steep price for a player with a significant injury history.
Despite the speculation, both teams have remained silent on the proposal, and no official talks have been reported. Still, the notion of Embiid donning purple and gold has captivated fans and analysts alike.
“This is the kind of trade that rewrites the NBA landscape,” Simmons concluded. “It’s crazy, sure. But sometimes crazy is exactly what you need.”
As the NBA offseason heats up, one thing is certain — the Embiid sweepstakes, real or imagined, just got a lot more interesting.
