Discussions about a possible return to the star base Ben Simmons To the Philadelphia 76ers, they’ve got a boost, and they could join the team as soon as this week, sources told ESPN Monday.

The sources added that Sixers management and coach Doc Rivers made progress in talks over the weekend with Simmons’ agent, Clutch Sports CEO Rich Bull, over a decision to return Simmons.

Simmons can soon speak directly to team officials, something he hasn’t done since a late August meeting in Los Angeles when he reiterated his desire to trade.

The Sixers have been looking to trade in the league this off season, but haven’t been able to find a deal that would bring them back the kind of similar superstars they’d like to keep building. Sources said those talks will likely continue with Simmons’ return, but Sixers president Daryl Morey and Rivers hope to continue work to persuade the Australian to stay long with the franchise.

Simmons will have lost $1 million of his salary once he is out of Monday’s game against the Brooklyn Nets.