Ben Simmons, the former No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, remains a free agent after a rocky stint with the Los Angeles Clippers. Following a contract buyout with the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons struggled to make an impact with the Clippers, averaging just 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in 18 appearances. Despite interest from teams like the New York Knicks, Simmons is reportedly considering retirement at just 29 years old.
However, the possibility of a return to the Philadelphia 76ers, the team that drafted him, has been a topic of discussion. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the 76ers showed interest in Simmons after his buyout with the Nets. Fischer mentioned that there had been “overtures” between Simmons and the 76ers, with some personal ties to the area, including Simmons’ brother living in Philadelphia at the time.
The Decline of Simmons’ Career and the Potential for a Philly Return
Simmons was at his best during his first four seasons with the 76ers, averaging 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. However, his career has been derailed by injuries and mental health struggles, leaving him a shadow of his former self. The once-promising young star has been criticized for his lack of offensive development, and his declining performance has led some, including former NBA player Jeff Teague, to suggest that Simmons is no longer an NBA-caliber player.
Despite this, the 76ers are reportedly considering bringing Simmons back, potentially offering him a chance to rejuvenate his career in a familiar setting.
Simmons and Embiid Have ‘Repaired’ Their Relationship
One of the biggest hurdles to a reunion between Simmons and the 76ers would be the fractured relationship between Simmons and Joel Embiid. When Simmons demanded a trade from Philadelphia in 2021, the fallout with Embiid was widely publicized, as the two were once the cornerstone duo of the franchise.
However, it seems that Simmons and Embiid have reportedly worked through their issues behind the scenes. Fischer stated, “I do think Embiid and Ben have repaired that type of fracturing that went down behind the scenes as well.” If Embiid is on board with the idea of Simmons returning to Philadelphia, a reunion could be in the cards.
With Embiid not quite reaching the same level of dominance since Simmons’ departure, a renewed partnership could help both players return to their peak form, and potentially elevate the 76ers back into title contention.
While the 76ers’ interest in Simmons remains uncertain, the potential for a reunion with Embiid could provide Simmons with a chance to rebuild his career in a familiar environment. However, whether this move comes to fruition will depend heavily on how the relationship between the two former stars continues to evolve.
