The 2025 offseason concluded without Ben Simmons securing a new team, but he now appears to have a clear preferred destination. Once the No. 1 overall pick in the NBA Draft, Simmons faced a challenging period last year, being released by the Brooklyn Nets and having an unproductive tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers. Currently a free agent, Simmons recently showed interest in returning to the Philadelphia 76ers by liking an Instagram comment suggesting he’d be a good fit for them.
When asked about the Sixers, Simmons replied that he plans to play in free agency and spoke about his health and ongoing commitment to the game. He emphasized that his decision isn’t driven by money but by his passion for basketball and his desire to fully recover before risking further injury. For the past few years, his primary focus has been on regaining full health.
Simmons’ career took a downturn following a troubled split with the Sixers that led to him missing training camp and preseason games, resulting in nearly $20 million in fines, grievances, and settlements. Although Philadelphia traded him to Brooklyn for a massive contract, he subsequently required surgery for a herniated disc in his back. Before surgery, Simmons struggled offensively but maintained value through his passing, rebounding, and defensive skills. Since the procedure, however, his playing time and performance have significantly declined.
While the Sixers might consider signing a fully healthy Simmons on a minimum contract—likely the only offer he could expect—he still needs to reach full fitness. Given the Sixers’ past issues with him, it’s uncertain whether they will bring him back, even though they face their own roster challenges.
Fan Take: Simmons’ potential return to the Sixers could be a compelling redemption story for basketball fans, highlighting resilience and second chances in the NBA. His health and motivation will be key, and if he can bounce back, it could have a notable impact on the dynamics of the league moving forward.
