Ben Simmons’ NBA journey has taken another turn, as he has reportedly agreed to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers following a buyout with the Brooklyn Nets, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Simmons, a former No. 1 overall pick, was highly sought after by several teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Houston Rockets, following his official waiver by the Nets on Saturday.
The former Rookie of the Year and three-time All-Star experienced significant success early in his career with the Philadelphia 76ers, earning recognition for his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities. However, his tenure in Philadelphia was ultimately cut short by a well-publicized falling out with the team, culminating in a trade to Brooklyn.
Since joining the Nets, Simmons has faced numerous challenges, including a series of back injuries that have significantly impacted his playing time. In 90 games with the Nets, he averaged 6.5 points, 6.3 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game.
Ben Simmons Predicted To Rise To Occasion With Los Angeles Clippers
According to Bleacher Report, Simmons’s new scenery in LA will offer him a new beginning, particularly because of head coach Ty Lue.
“After agreeing to a buyout and now signing with the Los Angeles Clippers, we should see a resurgence of sorts from the 28-year-old under the care of head coach Tyronn Lue.
Simmons chose the Clippers over the Cleveland Cavaliers, presumably because of a planned role for his talents before he hits unrestricted free agency this summer. Lue should get the most out of his passing, rebounding, and defense while surrounding him with shooters when on the floor.
For a Clippers team that ranks just 28th in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.54) and 25th in assist percentage (60.5 percent), Simmons and Los Angeles should actually go quite well together, especially thanks to Lue.”
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The Clippers have been a source of renewal for several players on their roster. James Harden has found a resurgence under the regime and Norman Powell has ascended to near All-Star level play, competing at the highest level of his career.
That track record is evidence that this prediction has plenty of validity.