NBA Rumors: Ben Simmons could return to the Philadelphia 76ers this summer

Ben Simmons could be the protagonist of one of the most surprising comebacks of the summer in the NBA. The Philadelphia 76ers are considering adding the Australian with a one-year minimum salary contract to complete the last spot on their roster, an operation that just a few months ago would have seemed unthinkable. However, the arrival of LeBron James, the team's lack of interior depth, and Simmons' desire to return to the league have completely changed the scenario.

The point guard, who did not play last season while recovering from his physical issues, has recently admitted that "maybe I'll return to Philadelphia", statements that, combined with the information placing the Sixers as favorites to acquire his services, have fueled rumors of a reunion with the franchise where he was a three-time All-Star.

LeBron James could be the key to the operation

One of the factors favoring Simmons' possible return is the presence of LeBron James in Philadelphia.

Both have maintained an excellent relationship for years and share representation with Rich Paul, founder of Klutch Sports, the same agency that also represents Tyrese Maxey. Paul's influence could facilitate the discussions and help Simmons find the right environment to revive a career that seemed completely stalled.

Furthermore, LeBron has always admired the Australian's talent and believes he can still be a very useful player if he accepts a different role than the one he played during his prime years.

The Sixers need depth behind Embiid

From a sports perspective, the operation also makes sense.

The main weakness of the Nick Nurse roster lies in the interior game. Besides Joel Embiid, Philadelphia has young players like Adem Bona, Johni Broome, or the newly added Ariel Hukporti, but none guarantees immediate relief for the MVP.

This is where Simmons comes in.

Although he acted as a point guard for much of his career, in recent months, the idea of converting him into a playmaking forward has gained traction, leveraging his size, tactical intelligence, and passing ability.

Rich Paul recently explained that this positional change could elevate him to a very high level.

"If he agrees to become a pick-and-roll center, keep setting screens, rolling to the hoop, and utilizing his court vision, he can return to being a $30 million player," stated the agent.

A low-risk, high-potential bet

For Philadelphia, the move would hardly have drawbacks.

A minimum salary contract would not affect the financial planning and would allow the addition of a player who, if able to stay healthy, offers qualities that are very hard to find in the market.

Simmons remains a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions, an excellent passer, and a player with a very high basketball IQ. His issues have always been related to health and offensive confidence, not his understanding of the game.

In a team filled with scorers like LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid, he would no longer be required to generate points constantly. His role would be much simpler: defend, rebound, distribute, and provide energy off the bench.

Simmons himself wants to return to the NBA

The Australian does not hide his intentions either.

After spending the past year recovering physically, he stated that several NBA coaches have told him, "if he's healthy, he'll have a place in the league".

His goal is to return in the best possible condition and demonstrate that he can still contribute.

"I want to get as strong as possible, get back on the court, and show a team that my skills are still needed," he recently explained.

In addition to mentioning Philadelphia, Simmons also acknowledged his admiration for the culture of the Miami Heat and the work of Erik Spoelstra, although at the moment all signs point to the Sixers as the most likely destination.

A second chance for both parties

The return would also have a significant emotional component.

Simmons arrived in Philadelphia as the number one pick in the draft and was seen for years as the star player destined to lead the franchise's future. However, his traumatic elimination in the 2021 playoffs marked a point of no return and led to a complete break with the fans and the organization.

Five years later, the context is entirely different.

The Sixers no longer need Simmons to be a star. They only seek a rotational player who provides depth and allows Embiid to be preserved during the regular season. For the Australian, on the other hand, it would be the perfect opportunity to rebuild his image where his career began.

The deal is not yet finalized, but it is increasingly gathering reasons to become a reality. Philadelphia needs frontcourt depth, Simmons seeks a fresh start, and LeBron James can act as a bridge between both sides. What seemed impossible years ago is starting to take shape as a low-risk, high-potential bet for one of the top title contenders.

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