The NBA world is patiently waiting for the big news to drop about a Ben Simmons trade. The Philadelphia 76ers have to make a move sooner than later, as Simmons has already stated that he does not intend to show up to training camp.
Simmons’ trade value was already at its lowest because of his performance in the NBA playoffs. His constant turning down of shot attempts, even at the rim, were a major detriment to the team’s success.
As a result, many questions began popping up about how much Simmons could truly contribute to a winning team in the postseason. That may have been a little drastic, as there is still a lot to like about Simmons.
Ben Simmons has a resume not many 25-year old players in the NBA have. The Philadelphia 76ers star is a three-time All-Star, two-time All-Defensive team member, and has one All-NBA team nomination under his belt.
LATEST NBA NEWS: Predictions for Latest NBA Trade Rumors: Simmons, Siakam, Dragic, Lillard
Yes, he has his shortcomings offensively, but he is arguably the most versatile defender in the NBA, an elite playmaker, and a true difference-maker in the open court thanks to his rebounding and ability to start a fastbreak by himself.
That kind of talent is why some teams, such as the Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers, have shown interest in him, have struggled to attract big-time talent in free agency. The Charlotte Hornets should be another team to monitor.
Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley believes the Hornets would be an excellent brand new landing spot for Ben Simmons, and we agree. There is a lot to like with what is going on in Charlotte, and the addition of someone such as Simmons would improve that outlook even more.
LATEST NBA NEWS: Predictions for Latest NBA Trade Rumors: Simmons, Siakam, Dragic, Lillard
The former LSU product would be an excellent fit alongside the Charlotte Hornets’ young core. If he is willing to play more in the frontcourt, it would work out even better.
Imagine the damage that a LaMelo Ball and Simmons pick-and-roll could do. Ball is a maestro with the ball in his hands with the ability to make a slick pass to Simmons or finish himself. Simmons grabbing a rebound and running in the open court with Miles Bridges would create nightly highlights.
The presence of Simmons would also allow Ball and Terry Rozier to get easier baskets. Simmons is an elite playmaker and would elevate the level of play of all his teammates around him even if he isn’t handling the ball as much as he does in Philadelphia.
LATEST NBA NEWS: Predictions for Latest NBA Trade Rumors: Simmons, Siakam, Dragic, Lillard
His defense would be a huge asset for Charlotte, as well. The Charlotte Hornets have many great offensive players, but outside of Rozier, they lack many strong defenders. Simmons would change that and neutralize the best player on the opposing team regardless of position.
The trade package is where Charlotte could hit a snag. A package of Gordon Hayward and some trade sweeteners doesn’t sound like enough to get the Philadelphia 76ers to bite. However, if the market for Ben Simmons is more barren than originally thought, Charlotte could be in the running with a competitive offer if the trade sweeteners are future picks and some of their younger players.
