NBA Trade Rumors: 9 Struggling difference-makers that need a fresh start to blossom

Ben Simmons, Brooklyn Nets

Through the first three seasons of his career, Ben Simmons looked like he was going to change the way point guards in the NBA were viewed. There was not much that Simmons couldn’t do on the floor (maybe hit a 3-point shot), but during the first few years of his career, that didn’t seem to matter at all. Despite his shooting struggles, Simmons was quickly emerging as one of the best players in the league. However, then, the quick fall from grace began.

In the four years since, Simmons has been a shell of himself. And while there was some hope that was going to change heading into this season, that hasn’t exactly happened. So far this season, Simmons has played in six games. While he’s been solid as a player, he hasn’t shown much in terms of reaching his previous All-Star level status.

Maybe I’m unrealistic in my hopes of Simmons getting back to his previous All-Star status but the more I think of it, the more I believe that if he’s going to do so, it’s not going to happen with the Nets. A fresh start may be exactly what Simmons needs. And maybe it doesn’t happen until he gets to choose his next landing spot via trade or free agency.