The 2021 off-season has already seen multiple major moves. Be it superstar trades or blockbuster free agent signings, multiple teams have seen big changes. But one player of the most rumored players in the trade market, Ben Simmons, still hasn’t moved anywhere.
The 76ers guard, who was the first overall pick in the 2016 draft, has developed into an incredible defensive clamp in the perimeter and has excellent vision and passing skills. Simmons is pretty much a constant in All-Star selections and given his skill-set, he is one of the most unique players as well.
READ MORE: Sixers Bolster Young Roster With Latest Signing, the Process Continues
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Ben Simmons’ time in 76ers more or less over
Standing at 6’10’, Simmons has stood out in the league for his unique skill-set. While his strides in passing and defense are commendable, Simmons has one major flaw to his game, scoring.
Starting off with a good output in his rookie season, the Australian’s offensive output hasn’t seen any significant change. Simmons rather has become passive in his drives and his scoring output has taken a hit.
This was apparent in the playoffs. Against the Atlanta Hawks, the Australian was passive and was pretty underwhelming. Even his defense was lackluster against a shifty and skillful guard like Trae Young.
Even his numbers from the free throw line were at an all-time low in the playoffs as he shot a mere 33% against Hawks – even lower than that of Shaquille O’Neal. Given how big of a disappointment Simmons was on the floor, he was pretty much a non-impact player on the roster.
The 76ers have conducted expansive discussions with several teams for Ben Simmons, including Minnesota and Toronto.
But neither a Timberwolves package nor the Raptors’ proposals have appealed to the 76ers as of yet.
More, via @ShamsCharania: https://t.co/OUlIr2FwYQ pic.twitter.com/j3wGFp0u8O
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 30, 2021
With his dreadful performances, the 24-year-old has become a constant in trade rumors. While the 76ers were reportedly interested in the same, they haven’t gotten the perfect offer so far.
But according to the latest reports, two teams have emerged as clear favorites: Minnesota Timberwolves and the Toronto Raptors. With teams now interested, Ben Simmons’ future is set, and it looks like it won’t be with the 76ers.
Twitter reacts to Simmons’ future update
NBA twitter went absolutely crazy upon learning the latest reports. While some fans trolled for the potential interest by the Wolves, other 76ers fans wrote that they simply want to trade him immediately.
One all star caliber player + 3 first round picks pic.twitter.com/9K5gUIV9ds
— Repo Man | Manel (@real_repo_man) August 30, 2021
WAKE UP , no team wants a 6’10” point guard who’s afraid to attempt a jump shot .
— Gerrad Acosta (@AcostaGerrad) August 30, 2021
Trade this guy
— Curtis (@Curtis45724) August 30, 2021
Ben Simmons’ future https://t.co/iaitjXL2id
— Devin Jones (@devintjones) August 30, 2021
29 NBA teams: We don’t want Ben Simmons
The Timberwolves: pic.twitter.com/Dy6f0xam66
— NBA Memes (@NBAMemes) August 28, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Ben Simmons’ skill set doesn’t fit on most NBA rosters. Not to mention he just had a pretty terrible game to end Philadelphia’s playoff run…
— Jake (@JVSwaps) August 30, 2021
“Damian Lillard for Ben Simmons” is some 2014-level takesmanship
— Dane (@danegado) August 30, 2021
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Ben Simmons’ future might not be set but there is no doubting the quality he can add to any team. But his flaws are can hurt any team in the playoffs. Can the Australian point guard work on his game and especially his shooting to show his real capability? Who will 76ers now pair up Joel Embiid with?