Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers’ once harmonious relationship has deteriorated rapidly, and now the two sides have reached an impasse. Simmons recently told Sixers management that he is not interested in remaining with the team and will not report to training camp.
Simmons’ future with the team become very clouded after the Sixers bowed out to the Atlanta Hawks in the second round of the 2021 playoffs. Simmons’ jump shooting and free throw woes were on full display in Philly’s early exit despite being the East’s No. 1 seed. His aversion to taking any shots outside of 10 feet have been chronicled extensively, most notably in three point shooting. Despite being a point-forward with exceptional length and athleticism, he has connected on just five attempts from behind the arc in his first four seasons.
The debate between Simmons’ and Joel Embiid’s compatibility on the floor has long been a popular sports media topic. While Simmons is an elite defender and possesses excellent burst to attack the basket, it’s evident that those qualities do not complement Embiid’s skill set. The paint often becomes too congested when Simmons drives to the rim and hangs around the paint while Embiid operates on the low block, forcing the the 7 foot, physically imposing Embiid out to the perimeter, limiting his value just to create adequate offensive spacing.
It’s been reported that the Minnesota Timberwolves have a keen interest in acquiring the former No. 1 pick, but it would require some adept salary cap maneuvering and the T-Wolves likely needing to part with the 2020’s draft No. 1 selection Anthony Edwards coming off a terrific rookie season. Karl-Anthony Towns, D’Angelo Russell, and Simmons would make a formidable trio, though it’s no guarantee to carry Minnesota to the playoffs in the staggeringly deep Western Conference.
