According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, trade talks surrounding Ben Simmons have recently taken a step in the right direction.

Over the past few days, the 76ers have been in discussions that potentially involve a three-team deal as they try to land a top-25 player in exchange for Simmons. There has been a list of teams that have shown interest in the three-time All-Star, and Philadelphia seems ready to make a move amid their recent struggles.

Unfortunately, Woj also reported the Portland Trail Blazers have made it abundantly clear Damian Lillard is unavailable in any trade discussion and that they have no interest in moving him. The dreams of Lillard in a Sixers uniform are likely over, but Daryl Morey is still set on obtaining another high-caliber player in any deal they make for Simmons.

As we approach December 15th, when all trade restrictions of recently signed and drafted players are lifted, 84% of the league becomes available in a trade. Considering this will likely be a multi-team deal, this restriction hindered the ability of multiple teams to make a deal. As that gets lifted, the likelihood of a trade increases significantly.

Daryl Morey was adamant the Sixers will get a “needle-moving” player in exchange for the disgruntled All-Star. The Sixers are struggling, but a lot of the teams in the league are also finding themselves in a position to blow up their rosters. It’s hard to know exactly which players are available for the Sixers to trade for, but they clearly have an opportunity to make a move.

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports