Could we actually see Ben Simmons back in a Philadelphia 76ers jersey? It sounds crazy, right? After a tumultuous exit and years of strained relations, the possibility of the Aussie star returning to the City of Brotherly Love has suddenly, and surprisingly, emerged. But here's where it gets controversial... Is this a genuine desire to mend fences, or a strategic move in a career that has seemingly stalled? Let's dive in.
Despite the NBA season fast approaching and the off-season dust settling, Ben Simmons remains a free agent. He hasn't inked a deal with any team, leaving many to wonder about his future in the league. After his time with the LA Clippers ended last season, the basketball world has heard very little regarding Simmons' plans. That is, until recently.
In a surprising twist, Simmons himself hinted at a potential reunion with the Sixers in an Instagram comment. Responding to a fan's question about whether he'd consider returning to Philadelphia on a minimum contract to play center or power forward, Simmons gave a response that sent shockwaves through the NBA community.
The fan's direct question was: "If Sixers asked you back to play centre/PF would you come back on minimum contract would you?"
Simmons replied: "It ain’t about the (money). I’d hoop there for free. It’s deeper than what they make y’all believe, which is why it keep pushing. (Right now) the focus is getting the body to 100 per cent before putting my heath on the line again ... like I have been the last few years."
And this is the part most people miss... While the statement seems to suggest a willingness to return, it also subtly hints at unresolved issues and a narrative that Simmons feels hasn't been accurately portrayed. What "deeper" issues is he referring to? This is where things get interesting. Was he forced to play before being fully recovered from his injuries?
His history with Philadelphia is, to put it mildly, complicated. His relationship with former teammate Joel Embiid, once considered a close friendship, has seemingly deteriorated. And let's not forget the hostile receptions he received upon returning to Philadelphia as a visiting player. Despite all of this, Simmons seems to be suggesting he'd be open to coming back.
It's important to remember that Simmons' early years with the Sixers were marked by considerable success. Drafted as the No. 1 overall pick, he quickly rose to stardom, earning recognition as one of the league's premier two-way players. During his time in Philly, he achieved three All-Star selections, was named to the All-NBA Third Team, and earned two NBA All-Defensive First Team honors, ultimately landing him a lucrative max contract. He was the Rookie of the Year in 2018.
However, things took a turn for the worse after Philadelphia's disappointing playoff exit against the Atlanta Hawks in 2021. Following the loss, Simmons requested a trade, and in 2022, he was ultimately dealt to the Brooklyn Nets as part of a package for James Harden.
Since then, the 6-foot-10 guard has struggled to maintain his health, playing a total of just 107 games across four seasons with Brooklyn and the Clippers. This inability to stay on the court has undoubtedly impacted his value and perception around the league.
Last offseason, Simmons reportedly rejected a one-year minimum contract offer from the New York Knicks, according to NBA insider Marc Stein. Interest from other teams has been lukewarm. ESPN's Brian Windhorst noted in September, "The interest has been lukewarm. There are a few teams that are interested. Frankly, if you’re looking at him as a point guard, there’s not that many teams out there that are in need of a point guard who has guaranteed playing time. If you’re looking at him as sort of a defensive big man, there’s a little bit bigger of a market."
Windhorst further elaborated on Simmons' potential contract situation, stating that he's likely looking at a minimum contract and that he "might even be forced to take a contract where he’s not guaranteed — where he would have to sort of earn his way on to the team through training camp and then maybe not know his status until midway through the season.” This illustrates the challenging position Simmons finds himself in as he seeks to revive his career.
So, what does this all mean? Is a Ben Simmons return to Philadelphia a realistic possibility, or simply wishful thinking fueled by an Instagram comment? Could he actually reinvent himself as a defensive-minded big man? And more importantly, can he regain his health and the confidence that made him a star in the first place? What do you think? Could Simmons and Embiid coexist again, or is too much damage irreparable? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
