NBA Rumors: Latest Buzz on Ben Simmons, Marquese Chriss and 2016 Draft Plans

There’s just one more playoff series standing in the way of the NBA offseason, which means draft buzz is starting to pick up across the Association in advance of the June 23 selection process. 

But before we break down the latest gossip regarding this year’s top prospects and their potential landing spots, take a look at Jonathan Wasserman’s updated top-five mock draft: 

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Sixers Leaning Toward Simmons

Ever since the Philadelphia 76ers won the rights to the top pick on lottery night May 17, rumors have swirled regarding their intentions at No. 1 overall. Namely, do they prefer Duke Blue Devils swingman Brandon Ingram or LSU Tigers point forward Ben Simmons?

Well, with less than a month remaining until the draft, a front-runner seems to have emerged. 

According to Philadelphia Magazine’s Derek Bodner, “multiple sources with knowledge of the Sixers’ thought process say it is LSU forward Ben Simmons who [general manager Bryan Colangelo] is leaning toward selecting first overall.” 

Bodner added that while it’s a bit early in the process to definitively peg the team’s preference, “it appears it would take something substantial, and unexpected, to shift the Sixers off of their current thought process.”

If Simmons is ultimately the pick, he will give the Sixers an immediate and sorely needed boost in the playmaking department.

“He’s a great passer, he can handle the ball and he’s always there to cheer you on,” LSU point guard Tim Quarterman said following a workout with the Sixers, per CSNPhilly.com’s Jessica Camerato. “He likes for other people to accomplish great accomplishments. He’s a great teammate.”

Although the …

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