Since that haunted game against the Atlanta Hawks in the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals, it has been slim pickings for Ben Simmons. After the saga with the Philadelphia 76ers, his career didn’t materialize with the Brooklyn Nets either. Now, he’s reportedly reaching a buyout with the Nets and will look to join a team making a late-season push.
According to reports, he’s looking for a winning environment and stability from his new home and a few teams are already in the running for the three-time All-Star. Here are five teams that make the most sense for a star once seen as a potential franchise cornerstone.
Where Could Ben Simmons Land Following Nets Buyout?
San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs are among the faster teams in the league already. But, with the Rookie of the Year race’s leader Stephon Castle and new acquisition De’Aaron Fox taking on a majority of the ball-handling load, that pace could increase tenfold.
For Simmons, who wants stability in the franchise, there might not be a better answer than Gregg Popovich and the vaunted Spurs organization. Plus, with their emphasis on the defensive end historically, Simmons could potentially find his two-time All-Defensive form again.
As a passer and man in transition, the former All-NBA selection is still a nightmare to deal with. Around a team that caters to his lack of shooting, Simmons could build out a nice niche for himself.
Memphis Grizzlies
Supporting a top-10 offense and defense, the Memphis Grizzlies have been incredibly consistent all year; an offense led by Ja Morant is perpetually in motion, moving up and down the court at an incredible pace.
With a playmaker as adept as the former 76er at finding open shooters and cutters, it could be a nice security blanket for Morant’s injury concerns. And, with the foul trouble that eats up both Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zach Edey, Simmons could serve as a nice insurance policy.
Houston Rockets
Reports are already linking Simmons to the Houston Rockets. According to the latest from Shams Charania and Chris Haynes, the former Rookie of the Year is going to take a meeting with them on Friday, Feb. 7 before deciding his next landing spot.
On a team that has been one of the best success stories of the year, Simmons would fit like a glove. With shooters and an all-motion offense around him, Simmons could feast with his still elite basketball IQ and passing vision.
The Rockets need true floor setters apart from Alperen Şengün, and the disgruntled star might be the best available option out there.
Los Angeles Clippers
At the top of the Simmons sweepstakes already, the Los Angeles Clippers could look to add to their defensive identity with a name like Simmons. Furthermore, beyond Ivica Zubac, the team lacks a true big body and he could fill that hole.
However, on the 22nd-ranked offense in the league, the fit with Simmons does raise some questions. The team lacks a true floor general beyond James Harden and Kris Dunn, and Simmons would be a huge upgrade over Dunn in that regard.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Arguably the best available option, the Cleveland Cavaliers need wing defenders, even after the addition of De’Andre Hunter. Ben Simmons would be the best man for the job, and with lineups featuring Evan Mobley at the center slot, Simmons could feast in transition.
The Cavaliers have been an elite offensive unit all season long, and the Australian would have no problems setting up their plethora of shooters for maximum damage.
He is slated to take a call right after the buyout is finalized; given his demands, there might not be a better situation out there for him.
