The Indiana Pacers are searching for a replacement for their injured All-NBA point guard Tyrese Haliburton, sidelined for the entire season after an Achilles tendon rupture sustained during the NBA Finals. In light of this, basketball analyst Michael Pina of The Ringer has proposed a compelling option: signing three-time All-Star guard Ben Simmons. This recommendation centers on Simmons’ potential fit as the Pacers’ new primary playmaker, aligning with their current needs and style of play.
Ben Simmons’ Challenging Career Journey and Skill Set
Once renowned for his abilities with the Philadelphia 76ers, Ben Simmons was a dominant two-way player, excelling as a defensive stalwart and a versatile offensive facilitator. Standing 6-foot-10, he was known for his defensive tenacity and playmaking, able to guard multiple positions and drive the offense with precision. During his peak, Simmons was a dynamic passer and an explosive finisher at the rim, though his shooting, especially his jump shot, remained unreliable.
Despite these strengths, a series of back and leg injuries have diminished Simmons’ athleticism and confidence. Since departing Philadelphia and joining the Los Angeles Clippers as a reserve, the 29-year-old veteran has struggled to recapture his former prime. Nevertheless, Pina sees the Pacers as a viable destination where Simmons could revive his career in a meaningful role.
Why Indiana Could Be an Ideal Fit for Simmons This Season
The Pacers currently plan to have starting shooting guard Andrew Nembhard shift down to the point guard position to fill the void left by Haliburton. However, Pina argues that Simmons offers a rare opportunity for Indiana to acquire a pass-first point guard similar in style to Haliburton, albeit with different strengths and weaknesses. Simmons’ size and full-court vision match some of Haliburton’s on-court responsibilities, potentially allowing the Pacers to maintain their offensive flow.
I think there’s a perfect NBA team for him, though. One last chance for him to do something on a regular basis in a semi-relevant situation,
Pina wrote.
Why not become the starting point guard for the Indiana Pacers? Throw Simmons the keys, ask him to impersonate Tyrese Haliburton, and just see what happens? This roster was built to accommodate and emphasize a pass-first point guard who races up and down the court.
—Michael Pina, Basketball Analyst
With the Pacers lacking a starting-caliber center following Myles Turner’s departure to the Milwaukee Bucks, their 2024-25 season outlook is modest. This context makes Simmons a relatively low-risk signing, as the team has limited expectations in the short term and room to experiment with their lineup.
Potential Risks and Considerations in Signing Simmons
Despite the potential upside, challenges remain. Simmons’ inability to consistently make jump shots is well-documented and poses a significant offensive limitation. Additionally, his style differs from Haliburton’s in defensive off-ball positioning, as Pina notes the difference in defensive awareness when Simmons is away from the ball.
It’s a no-lose situation for Indy,
Pina commented.
Yes, nobody will guard Simmons when he doesn’t have the ball, which is one of several key differences between him and the All-Star he’d be replacing. But if Simmons stinks, no harm, no foul! He’d be on a veteran’s minimum contract for a team with zero expectations until Haliburton’s Achilles recovers.
—Michael Pina, Basketball Analyst
This contract flexibility and the minimal financial risk make Simmons a viable short-term experiment for the Pacers, especially as they await Haliburton’s recovery. Moreover, Simmons’ familiarity with key personnel could ease his transition to Indiana.
Familiar Faces and Organizational Factors Supporting a Possible Simmons Signing
If Ben Simmons were to join the Pacers, two prominent figures from his past are already in the organization. Veteran reserve point guard T.J. McConnell, who backed Simmons up during their time with the 76ers, is currently with Indiana. Additionally, former Philadelphia assistant coach Lloyd Pierce now works alongside Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle, providing Simmons with familiarity in coaching staff and teammates.
While the Pacers currently have a full roster of 15 players, Pina notes that Indiana could waive a minimum contract player to make room for Simmons, making the acquisition logistically feasible.
What Could Simmons’ Addition Mean for the Pacers This Season?
The suggestion to sign Simmons reflects the Pacers’ search for creative solutions to fill the substantial void left by Haliburton’s injury. Simmons represents a rare blend of playmaking and defensive potential, even if his shooting limitations remain. Given the team’s adjusted expectations this season and the minimal financial risk involved, this move could provide both short-term continuity and a chance for Simmons to re-establish himself as a key contributor.
Should the Pacers decide to bring Simmons onboard, they would be offering him a fresh opportunity to demonstrate his abilities in a starting role, potentially impacting team dynamics and offering a new narrative to an underdog story for both player and franchise during this challenging year.