Jan 10, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons (10) controls the ball in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Jan 10, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons (10) controls the ball in the second half against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Although the noise surrounding the free agency market has died down, rumors about Ben Simmons’ potential NBA comeback have drawn a surprising amount of attention. As this storyline has gathered more steam over the past few weeks, it appears the rumor is closer to becoming a reality.
Ben Simmons missed the entirety of the 2024-25 season after refusing to sign a minimum deal with any team. With reports indicating that the former All-Star was even contemplating retirement at the time, it seemed as if Simmons’ career was over. Now, according to NBA insider Marc J. Spears, the 30-year-old is gearing up to make his return to the big stage.
Spears tweeted that Simmons’ comeback has already led several teams to show an interest in the guard. However, on a more interesting note, he also revealed that a Western Conference team had offered the three-time All-Star a training camp invite. He wrote:
“Sources: Several NBA teams have expressed interest to Simmons’ camp, including one West squad that offered a training camp invite. He is also open to signing a vet minimum contract. Simmons has dreams of playing for Australia during the 2028 L.A. Olympics. Attending mini-camp aids hope.”
The “mini-camp” in question refers to a player-led training camp in Australia that Ben Simmons is expected to participate in. Spears elaborated on this, too, stating:
“NBA free agent forward Ben Simmons is expected to be a full participant with ‘zero restrictions’ in a player-led Aussie men’s national team mini-camp in Melbourne beginning Monday, sources to andscape. Simmons took last season off in hopes of completely healing from injuries.”
“The three-time NBA All-Star paid his own way to the camp. A coach who worked out Simmons recently said he has regained his athleticism. The injury-plagued 30-year-old recently told andscape this is the best he’s felt in years. He last played with the Nets & Clippers in the 24-25 season.”
It is well-known that Ben Simmons struggled to stay healthy during the latter stages of his NBA career. As recurring back injuries sidelined him for prolonged periods, the guard regressed, losing the athleticism and versatility that made him so impactful on the court.
After being a star-caliber player early in his career, Simmons effectively transitioned into being a role player later on. Although he remained impactful defensively, he clearly wasn’t living up to his potential.
In the 2024-25 season, Simmons averaged 5.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and 0.7 steals per game while shooting 52.0% from the field. With figures like these, the 30-year-old was still a solid asset on the roster. Hence, if Spears’ report about his health and athleticism is to be believed, evidence suggests he could be a valuable pickup on a minimum deal even at this point in his career.
Truth be told, there is also enough reason to doubt how effective he can be, especially after routinely coming up short in big moments. But despite his poor shooting, he possesses the tools to be a difference-maker, especially if he can implement his gifts and stay healthy.
The initial reports hinted at the Philadelphia 76ers emerging as a suitor for the three-time All-Star, but as more teams enter the fray, Ben Simmons may benefit from taking his talents elsewhere. With several teams reportedly showing an interest, it will be intriguing to see where he eventually ends up.