I've only heard this as a rumor and not from any credible source, so this is just an interesting but unlikely scenario. Let's say the Lakers really want Simmons (there has also been some rumors that Simmons would prefer to go to the Lakers). Would you trade the #1 pick for the #2 pick (which would be Ingram) and Russell from the Lakers? Then the Sixers would have a back court of Russell and Ingram and not have to move any of your big men at this time, allowing the situation with Embid to play out before trading Noel or Okafor. If the Lakers would consider that and are really hot for Simmons, I'd also ask them to remove the top 3 protection of next years pick they owe us.
That would give them Embid, Okafor, Noel, Ingram, Russell, Saric (if he comes over), Grant, Holmes, Stauskas, Smith, etc... for next year.
They would still have the 24th and 26th picks this year that they could trade one or both to a team like Portland that has no picks in this years draft for a good rotation player like Allen Crabbe, or the Knicks who are trying to get into the late first round for something like a future protected 1st rounder. Or keep those picks and maybe draft one depth player and an international stash guy.
Then next year, they would then have their own 1st round pick (which they could swap with the Kings) and the Lakers pick (regardless of where they pick). Both likely to be in the lottery next year with a big man to trade as well for another top asset and an already pretty full roster of young talent with still enough payroll room to lure a top free agent.
