NBA Rumors: Houston Rockets demand Ben Simmons, 3 first-round picks for James Harden

James Harden, since Russell Westbrook's trade to the Washington Wizards, has been the focus of NBA trade rumours. While the All-Star guard is yet to speak on the matter, he wants out of the Houston Rockets, wanting to play for a team like the Philadelphia 76ers or Brooklyn Nets. However, teams are apparently unable to reach a decision. 

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NBA rumors: Harden 76ers trade requires Sixers to give up Ben Simmons

As per reports, the Houston Rockets have demanded Ben Simmons and three first-round picks for the Philadelphia 76ers trade. Harden, who is apparently unimpressed with the John Wall trade, still wants to leave Houston. However, the team is also looking to get a younger player on board. 

Is a Simmons trade possible?

While a Ben Simmons trade will be preferred by the Rockets, the 76ers do not want to want trade the 24-year-old. As per reports, their president of basketball operations (and Rockets' ex-GM) Daryl Morey is unwilling to break the Joel Embiid-Simmons duo. The team made it to the playoffs this year, and the Sixers are looking to build a stronger roster with Embiid and Simmons at the centre.

Harden, on the other hand, wants to play for a title contender. Reports add that along with the 76ers and Nets, the Milwaukee Bucks and Miami Heat are also added to the list. While rumours about a Harden trade have been around for months, they gained traction after Westbrook was traded to the Washington Wizards for John Wall. 

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After the trade, reports stated that Harden preferred to play with Wall over Westbrook. While the Nets were an option, the Rockets are not interested in a deal which does not include either Kevin Durant or Kyrie Irving. Though Harden with the Nets increases the chances of a championship, Durant has stated does not even think about the Rockets guard.

Also read | Ben Simmons' sister fuels Harden-Simmons trade rumours with cryptic tweet

(Image credits: Ben Simmons, James Harden Instagram)