Ben Simmons continues to fuel the comeback attempt. The former Philadelphia 76ers All-Star took to Instagram earlier in the week to post a picture of a few pairs of sneakers on his story. Sixers fans couldn’t help but notice that two out of the three pairs were LeBron James’. The dots were easy to connect—LeBron’s in Philly—Simmons still has the Klutch connection. The All-Star also noted that he would be open to a reunion before free agency started in 2026.
Unfortunately for Simmons, his reunion dream would have to wait until the winter if the Sixers are going to be his next team. By then, Simmons might have a new destination, or moved on. At this point, there are plenty of teams with room for another player. After taking an entire season off, Simmons might be eager to get back out on the floor sooner rather than later.
Who’s got a roster spot?
Simmons might be useful for a playoff-contending team with a need for a playmaking and defensive boost off the bench. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Golden State Warriors, Indiana Pacers, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Orlando Magic, and the San Antonio Spurs all have at least one spot open, according to HoopsRumors.
The Washington Wizards are hoping to enter the postseason conversation this year. The Los Angeles Clippers are in an awkward spot and could be a Play-In team at best. The Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls are in the rebuilding conversation.
Ben Simmons sends a message to the league
As the weekend started, Simmons dropped a strong message with a new Instagram post, which shows him in the gym during or after a workout.
“I wouldn’t change the story. The highs, the lows, the pain, the time, the lessons. I embrace all of it. Every chapter built something in me that I couldn’t have built any other way. Grateful for where I’ve been. Proud of where I stand. Ready for wherever this goes. 😤.”
As Sixers fans know well, Simmons’ story was loaded with highs and lows. When he entered the NBA in 2016, he was the No. 1 pick out of LSU. Despite the shortcomings on offense, Simmons was still a three-time All-Star during his four-year run in Philly. He averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists. After his Rookie of the Year honors, Simmons found himself in the Defensive Player of the Year hunt, making All-Defensive teams, and even grabbing All-NBA.
After a playoff blunder in 2021, Simmons’ career went on a different path. He had stints with the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers. Injuries set him back, which eventually led to Simmons taking the entire 2025-2026 NBA season off to get his mind and body right. Now, he’s waiting for the right opportunity to lace his sneakers back up.
