While there are clear-cut targets that should be on the Golden State Warriors’ radar this summer, they may think outside the box in free agency.
Sports Illustrated’s Ben Stinar believes the Dubs should acquire a three-time All-Star and failed former Philadelphia 76ers guard who could use a career boost.
“Ben Simmons is no longer the All-Star player he once was when he was with the Philadelphia 76ers,” Stinar wrote Tuesday.
“That said, the former LSU star could still be a valuable role player in limited minutes. He is coming off a season where he spent time with the Brooklyn Nets and LA (Los Angeles) Clippers.”
“This summer, Simmons will be a free agent who is available to sign with any team in the league. I believe that the Golden State Warriors should sign the 28-year-old. At this stage of his career, Simmons can likely be signed for a minimum contract.”
“He finished his year with the Clippers (so he would not have to go far to get to San Francisco). The Warriors could use more size, rebounding, and play-making (which are things that Simmons can still do well).”
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Regarding hype, Simmons was believed to be the next great Sixer when he was drafted by the franchise in 2016.
After sitting out the 2016-17 season, Simmons made an immediate impact with Philadelphia during his rookie year.
The LSU product’s promising defensive rebounding, coast-to-coast scoring, spectacular vision on the move, and formidable defense were encouraging to witness.
Simmons averaged 15.8 points, 8.2 assists, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game, earning him Rookie of the Year honors.
Simmons’ following three campaigns included three All-Star nods and two NBA All-Defensive first-team selections. However, a somber end to the 2020-21 season negatively altered the trajectory of Simmons’ career.
After underperforming against the Atlanta Hawks in the Eastern Conference Finals and causing drama in the offseason, the 76ers traded the former McDonald’s All-American to the Brooklyn Nets.
Simmons spent 2.5 uneventful seasons with the Nets before landing with the Clippers this past May.
Considering the 6-foot-10 unrestricted free agent was a non-factor with the James Harden-led organization (he averaged 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists), it’s safe to say he’ll be searching for a new home this summer.
Although Simmons’ track record suggests he would be a risky acquisition for a Dubs squad hoping to win a title in 2025-26, it would be preposterous to suggest he doesn’t possess a skill set that could attract the established franchise.
From play-making in a less demanding role to serving as a disruptor on the defensive end, Simmons is capable of assisting a contender like the Warriors.
Time will tell if Golden State feels the same way about the struggling ex- No. 1 overall pick.
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