Dallas Mavericks: Should they target Ben Simmons?

The Dallas Mavericks entered the offseason with plans of adding a marquee free agent to pair with Luka Doncic, but they could not make it happen. Kyle Lowry chose the Heat, Kawhi Leonard stayed in Los Angeles, and the Mavs went to Plan B of filling holes in their roster. They added Reggie Bullock and Sterling Brown to improve their shooting and perimeter defense, but Dallas is still searching for more talent.

The NBA rumor mill caught fire on Aug. 31 as Keith Pompey broke the news (subscription required) that Ben Simmons requested a trade and does not plan to report to training camp with the Sixers. If true, the clock is ticking for Philadelphia to make a deal.

Should the Mavericks target Simmons? Do they have the assets to land the three-time All-Star? Let us take a closer look at the situation in Philly before diving into those questions.

Ben Simmons wants out: Should the Dallas Mavericks trade for him?

Simmons struggled in the playoffs, especially against the Hawks in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. He went 15 of 45 from the foul line and was passing up open shots as the top-seeded Sixers were upset. Things went from bad to worse after Philadelphia head coach Doc Rivers' comments on Simmons following their Game 7 loss.

The 25-year-old has plenty of potential and is one of the best perimeter defenders in the league. The Philadelphia 76ers reportedly have a massive asking price for Simmons that is dropping quickly. Should the Mavs be making offers for him?