As the NBA free agency period moves past its first month, several notable players still lack new team agreements, with Ben Simmons standing out among them. The former Philadelphia 76ers star, recently turning 29, has yet to finalize his next destination. His official availability raises questions about where the three-time All-Star might land next, keeping the basketball community intrigued by his potential NBA landing.
After a brief tenure with the LA Clippers following a buyout from the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons has not signed with any new team. Although his previous dominant form has declined, he remains a player worth considering for squads seeking to bolster their playmaking options at a reasonable cost. Last season, over 51 games, Simmons posted averages of 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game.
Could the Indiana Pacers Be Simmons’ Next Opportunity?
Michael Pina, a respected NBA writer for The Ringer, recently suggested that the Indiana Pacers could be an ideal fit for Simmons. With their current starting point guard Tyrese Haliburton sidelined due to an Achilles injury sustained in the postseason, the Pacers face a pressing need for a capable playmaker. Simmons’ pass-first style might offer a temporary solution that aligns well with the Pacers’ roster construction.
“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. 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. Why not take a flier? It’s a no-lose situation for Indy.” —Michael Pina, NBA writer
Despite not being an exact replacement for Haliburton, Simmons could still serve a valuable role in Indiana’s offense. His basketball IQ and ability to distribute the ball remain assets, and his style fits a fast-paced system supported by capable scorers and shooters. The Pacers might maximize his strengths while mitigating his weaknesses in transition.
However, Indiana would likely need to adjust defensively, as opposing teams have often neglected to guard Simmons outside the paint—a challenge Simmons has faced throughout his career after being the No. 1 overall draft pick.
Other Teams Monitoring Simmons’ Availability
While the Pacers scenario is gaining attention, Simmons’ next team is still undetermined. Reports indicate the New York Knicks show considerable interest, and the Sacramento Kings have also been mentioned as potential suitors. Thus, his potential NBA landing remains widely open and subject to ongoing negotiation.
Context on Simmons’ Former Team and Related Players
Simmons’ past contributions with the Philadelphia 76ers remain relevant, particularly when considering the broader narrative around team dynamics and player roles. Discussions around other Sixers like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey continue to circulate among fans and analysts, highlighting the ongoing evolution of the roster Simmons once helped shape.
Kevin McCormick of FanNation’s All76ers, with previous experience at ESPN and Sportskeeda, has covered stories related to Simmons and his former team, adding perspective on the shifting NBA landscape around these players and organizations.
What a Simmons Signing Could Mean for the Pacers and NBA
If the Indiana Pacers do decide to pursue Ben Simmons, it would represent a calculated gamble with potential upside. His ability to lead an offense with smart passing could ease the impact of Haliburton’s absence and keep the team competitive. Moreover, this experiment may offer Simmons the opportunity to stabilize his NBA career and demonstrate value for future contracts.
Ultimately, Simmons’ potential NBA landing with the Pacers or another team could influence playoff races and roster strategies across the league. Teams assessing their options for point guard depth might view Simmons as a low-risk, high-reward signing if they can harness his talents effectively in a supportive environment.