It’s been months since the NBA storylines haven’t featured the Ben Simmons trade saga. He recently informed the Sixers that he’s not ‘mentally ready’ to play and needs some time. The franchise have now reportedly stopped fining the 25-year-old as they’ve interpreted his message in good faith.
Simmons expressed his thoughts on leaving the Sixers in August, and he made it clear. But the situation hasn’t worked out the way he thought it would. He’s back in Philly but is yet to feature for the Sixers this season.
USA Today via Reuters
May 26, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) reacts after dunking the ball against the Washington Wizards during the first quarter of game two in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
He has faced criticism recently over his refusal to take part in some of the drills during the practice sessions. However, one former All-Star has his back on this. Shawn Marion recently talked about the Ben Simmons situation and said that the Australian can fit in any team.
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Shawn Marion says Ben Simmons can fit anywhere
Former Mavericks legend Shawn Marion recently appeared in an interview on Bally Sports. During the podcast, Shawn talked about Ben Simmons’ versatility and how he can fit on any team.
“He’s such a versatile player. And his size, he’s so big, man. I mean, he almost can fit on any team.
“You got a few shooters on your team. He can go anywhere pretty much. You got some guys who can put the ball in the hole, that’s all he really needs. If he starts shooting that jumper which he has worked on in the off-season,” Marion told Brandon ‘Scoop B’ Robinson.
“I told him ‘you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take’.”
76ers PG Ben Simmons has been linked to Timberwolves for months with D’Angelo Russell not made available to Philly.
Where would Simmons fit?
Shawn Marion tells @BallySports Simmons would fit anywhere b/c of his unique skill set.
Here’s more from our dialogue. pic.twitter.com/IFQhbjnU2v
— 👑 Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson 📍 (@ScoopB) October 24, 2021
Marion said that Ben needs to take more shots, but more than that, he needs to believe in his ability to do so. Simmons is one of the best talents in the NBA. He could help a lot of teams that are vying for the playoff spots this season.
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And he is linked with several teams with Minnesota Timberwolves being the latest name on the papers. However, the Sixers are adamant about their demands that they want an equally good player in exchange for Simmons. He has recently spoken to the team and taken responsibility for his actions. With all the criticism he faced last season, it would be amazing to see Simmons shooting for the Sixers again.
