Although it has been a few months now, it feels like the Ben Simmons saga has been going on for years now. Whether or not he will return to the franchise that gave him so much, remains to be seen. At the end of last season, it was almost confirmed that it was the end of the road. However, there is yet another twist in the tale.
READ MORE: Brooklyn Nets GM Ends James Harden Trade Saga With One Word
Last year, Ben Simmons looked like a shadow of himself. Poor form, minor injuries and distrust within the management saw him become a bench-warmer. As a result, he lost the faith of the franchise, and was keen on finding a new home. The 25-year-old witnessed his worst campaign in terms of average points and hasn’t featured ever since the culmination of the 2020-21 season. But is there a new destination calling?
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The Philadelphia 76ers are not interested in giving up ‘multiple valuable trade chips’ for a disgruntled star in James Harden, @KyleNeubeck
“the Sixers don't believe they should have to give up more than a multi-time All-Star in Simmons to get a deal done before February 10th.” pic.twitter.com/jN1nYC8v9d
— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) February 5, 2022
Ben Simmons saga takes unexpected turn in anticlimactic ending
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According to numerous reports, more than one franchise was interested in signing Simmons. A former All-Defensive Team member, Ben was also rumored to be part of multiple trade deals, none of which have become concrete. One of these, was a potential blockbuster exchange with the Nets for James Harden. According to Bleacher Report however, there may be a final nail in the coffin that will leave Sixers fan fuming.
Although he made attempts to return to Doc Rivers’ training many times, things didn’t work out. Following this, the star guard revealed that he has been battling mental health issues for sometime. Now, the report claims that instead of making a rushed move for Simmons to be ousted, the Sixers will focus on building around Joel Embiid. As a result, a trade for Ben Simmons before the trade deadline looks more and more unlikely.
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Will the James Harden-Ben Simmons deal get completed? Or does the youngster still have a future with Philly? Let’s wait and watch.