While Ben Simmons never made it on the court this year for the Nets, sources tell Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report that the 25-year-old wanted to make his debut earlier this spring so that he could establish a basketball connection with new teammates.
Some within the Nets organization are hoping that Simmons spends significant time in the team’s facility rather than “enjoying a celebrity vacation mindset,” per Fischer.
There’s been some talk within the organization about moving Simmons. Completing a trade appears unlikely at this time.
“Brooklyn just has to play it out a little bit. You don’t really have a choice,” a rival GM told Fischer. “I just don’t think (Simmons) has any real trade value. He hasn’t been accountable for two franchises. He hasn’t played an entire season due to a back injury. How can you do a trade with the chance he reports and then says he can’t play because of the back again?”
Previous reports indicated that Simmons had interest in joining three teams (Lakers, Clippers, and Warriors), although that was while he was still on the Sixers.
Let’s quickly explore these three teams as trade partners for the Nets:
- It seems far-fetched to think the Warriors will trade for Simmons this summer given their success, yet both Los Angeles clubs would be foolish to not consider a move.
- The Lakers lack the flexibility to take on Simmons’ $35.4 million salary, though if they could move Russell Westbrook elsewhere, it could open up an opportunity to trade for Simmons.
- The Clippers make the most sense from a roster standpoint, as they have several players on mid-sized salaries which could help the Nets add depth.
Brooklyn adding Durant’s old teammate, Reggie Jackson, along with Marcus Morris, Terance Mann, and a first-round pick would give the franchise immediate depth and some flexibility to make moves down the line. No sources here—simply outlining a move that may make sense for two franchises, especially if Simmons has little interest in playing with the Nets.
Kyrie Irving Discusses Future
Kyrie Irving’s free agency is another pressing topic this offseason, though the point guard appears committed to the franchise.
“In terms of my extension, man, I don’t really plan on going anywhere,” Irving said. “So this is just added motivation for our franchise to be at the top of the league for the next few years.”
Irving added that he’d like to work closely with owner Joe Tsai, GM Sean Marks, and Kevin Durant to determine the best way to manage the franchise moving forward.
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