Although I agree I always feel you go with a talented big over anything else. Embiid is special and can dominate a game in the post whenever he chooses. I think he's that talented. And that's a rarity in today's NBA which is more perimeter focused. Embiid just needs the right coaching and the right pieces around him to really see him take that next step. Rivers and Morey can do just that I think.... coach him to stay free throw line and below, then put the shooters around him to give him the space he needs to dominate everybody in his path.
Tall players that can handle the ball play solid defense AND NOT SHOOT are a dime a dozen. I know Simmons is a bit more than that, but what he offers right now vs what Harden offers right now is WORLDS apart.
My thought process above, I'd gladly take Harden for Simmons. You can win now with Harden and Embiid, then when Harden is either coming towards the end of his contract or no longer as effective, ship him off for more pieces and continue to have Embiid as the focal point of the franchise.
Morey can construct a team and always manages to either land good free agents or pull some trade outta his ass that's like "how'd he pull that off???" Long term growth and win now potential, Harden and Embiid washes Simmons and Embiid.
Numbers won't allow a 1 for 1 trade. Other pieces have to be involved due to Harden's contract.
And as for your Embiid comments about being out of shape and gassed in the later portions of the game, that's as much on coaching and the leadership within the organization as it is on Embiid. If you see it how come the previous coaching staff didn't see it and do something about it?
Of the 2, Simmons is expendable. If I'm a Morey I'm doing that trade without hesitation. And trust me he wants to do it but I'm willing to bet somebody in that organization is telling him no