Ben Simmons, the former Philadelphia 76ers All-Star, has seen his NBA momentum slow dramatically, but remains a free agent this offseason. Despite his reduced impact compared to earlier in his career, Simmons contributed last season with averages of 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, shooting 52.0% from the field over 51 games split between the Los Angeles Clippers and Brooklyn Nets. Fans speculated the Phoenix Suns might be interested in adding Simmons to their roster, but the team decisively passed on acquiring him.
Phoenix Suns Firm on No Interest in Acquiring Simmons
John Gambadoro from Arizona Sports 98.7 FM delivered a definitive message about Simmons’ status with the Suns, stating,
For the many that are asking – no the Suns do not have interest in Ben Simmons.
This public dismissal triggered strong reactions across social media, fueling debate among supporters about Simmons’ fit and future prospects.
Mixed Responses from Fans on Suns’ Decision
Fans responded with a mixture of disappointment and understanding. Some envisioned Simmons slipping into a role similar to Boris Diaw’s, utilizing his defensive skills and playmaking as a power forward starter. Enthusiasts highlighted Simmons’ potential synergy with players like Devin Booker and Royce O’Neale, imagining a dynamic lineup. Others expressed skepticism, focusing on ongoing health concerns that have plagued Simmons throughout his career. Comments also showed frustration, with one fan lamenting, Gambo you break my heart.
Meanwhile, some fans suggested the Suns might settle for less prominent options such as Raul Neto or Brad Wanamaker rather than take a risk on Simmons. Throughout the conversation, it remained clear that Simmons’ situation evokes both nostalgia for his former abilities and careful consideration of his current limitations.
Looking Ahead: Simmons’ Career and the NBA Landscape
Although the Suns have shut the door on signing Ben Simmons, his free-agent journey is far from over. With nearly a decade of NBA experience, Simmons still offers intriguing value should a team decide to gamble on his ability to regain form. As training camps approach, all eyes will be on Simmons’ next move and whether he can find a situation that allows him to rebuild his reputation and impact on the court.
The significance of this rejection is twofold: it highlights Phoenix’s strategic direction and leaves Simmons at a critical crossroads, underscoring the challenges he faces in returning to prominence within a highly competitive league. His future decisions could influence not only his own career trajectory but also the fortunes of any organization willing to take a chance on his potential resurgence.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Ben Simmons date a Kardashian?
A. Ben Simmons and Kendall Jenner were in a relationship for a year before breaking up. They said the long distance between Los Angeles, where Kendall lived, and Philadelphia, where Ben was based, led to their breakup.
Q. Why was Ben Simmons suspended?
A. Simmons allegedly did not join in one part of the practice, which led to him being dismissed. He specifically skipped a defensive exercise. Furthermore, Wojnarowski mentions that the Sixers fined Simmons $1.4 million because he missed four preseason matches.
Q. Why did Kendall Jenner leave Ben Simmons?
A. According to our sources, the kiss happened when Kim was about 11 years old and Brandon was 12. At that time, Kris and Bruce were in a relationship but not yet married. The kiss occurred during a game of Truth or Dare and was just a quick peck.
Q. What is Ben Simmons diagnosed with?
A. On March 24, the Nets reported that Simmons has a pinched nerve in his back and will be out for an unknown period.