Ben Simmons has explicitly clarified through trusted sources that he no longer wishes to be a part of the 76ers. And that has triggered a buzz throughout the league. While most experts discuss the future of Ben Simmons, one NBA Legend has called him out on his behavior. And of course, it’s none other than the Philadelphia Legend Charles Barkley.
Outspoken about his feelings revolving around this trade request, Barkley is justifiably angry at the predicament in which Ben Simmons has left the franchise, especially after signing a max contract in the summer of 2019.
NBA Legend speaks his mind on the facades of Ben Simmons
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Charles Barkley appeared on TNT’s “The Big Podcast” with Shaquille O’Neal where he fully broke down what he felt about the Ben Simmons trade saga. While talking about his performance last playoffs, Barkley mentioned an almost unbelievable stat.
Being an all-star, Ben Simmons did not attempt a single field goal in the entire 4th quarter against the Hawks in the playoffs. While that would be enough to make a Philadelphia supporter angry, he posted videos in this offseason of him taking mid-range and long-range shots during workout games.
Barkley said, “Hey spice! I live in Philadelphia during the summer. This is the third year in a row they put up their bullsh** jump shot during the summer.”
Barkley was angry that while Simmons posts videos of swiftly making jump shots all around the court, he barely attempts any in the game.
“But this is so funny, you know, because I mean honestly, I’m in Philly all summer, so I get asked this question every day. This would be the third year in a row that he put up all these things during the summer, of him shooting a jump shot. I’m not falling for the banana in a tailpipe anymore. That’s exactly what it is.”
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What does this mean for Simmons?
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The NBA community has mixed opinions about the trade request from Ben Simmons. However, the legends clearly disapprove of the way he is leaving the franchise. It is natural for this trade request to feel like a betrayal of trust, especially since they gave him a max contract in 2019.
But if Simmons moves to another organization and proves his haters wrong, will he make a bold statement for the entire league? We’ll have to wait and see.