NBA Rumors: Sixers are still ‘committed’ to Ben Simmons
NBA Rumors: The Philadelphia 76ers really want you to know that they’re committed to Ben Simmons.
The Philadelphia 76ers have some big decisions to make this offseason and they’re reportedly already beginning to have such discussions. Among the many questions that the Sixers have to explore this offseason, the biggest of such revolve around whether the duo of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons is good enough to win an NBA championship.
After falling short of expectations once again on the big stage, the doubt surrounding Simmons hasn’t been more than it is now. Although, at least for the time being, it appears that the Sixers are remaining committed to Simmons.
Or, at least, that’s what they’re saying.
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"[via ESPN]The 76ers are committed to keeping Simmons as a central piece of their franchise, sources said."
The Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons have a complicated relationship
Simmons is coming off a playoff performance against the Atlanta Hawks that left much to be desired. In the seven games against Atlanta, Simmons averaged less than 10 point per game and shot under 40 percent from the free-throw line.
He shied away from the big moment and wasn’t the reliable second option that Embiid needed in crunch time against the Hawks. And that’s the biggest reason why there are so many questions surrounding the Sixers heading into the offseason.
All that said, assuming that this report is indeed true, it’s not surprising that the Sixers aren’t ready to move on from Simmons. What’s surprising is the fact that they have to make these concessions shortly after the end of their season. Simmons is 24 years old and still growing into the player that he can be. The fact that he’s already being written off is quite unfortunate.
And it, at least, plays a part in why so many young players flame out so early in their careers. And while it was sad to see Sixers head coach Doc Rivers and, at least partly, Embiid not come to the defense of Simmons shortly after Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, they at least saved some face by what was reported the next day.
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While it wouldn’t be surprising for the Sixers to explore the possibility of Simmons this summer, it would be extremely unfortunate.