The Green isn’t always grasser on the other side. Or something.
Ben Simmons will most likely start the 2021-22 season on a team other than the Philadelphia 76ers, if recent reports about a potential exit are to be believed. Simmons has officially requested a trade to search for greener NBA pastures, with a list of potential suitors not particularly lengthy.
MORE: What is Ben Simmons’ trade value? Assessing the strengths and weaknesses
Among acquiring candidates, the Warriors are interested in Simmons’ services, with a catch: Golden State’s front office is concerned that pairing Simmons with Draymond Green won’t bode well, with both players’ lack of shooting prowess at the forefront of the issues.
Monte Pool of NBC Sports Bay Area says the idea of adding Simmons has been divisive in the office.
“According to league sources, any interest the Warriors might have in Simmons is conditional,” Poole said. “In short, they’re not that interested as long as Draymond Green is on the roster. …
“The Warriors, according to sources, are divided on the subject. Some see great potential in having two skilled players thriving in the ball-movement principles, especially in transition. Simmons also happens to be six years younger than Green.
“Others, however, believe having two non-shooters on the court is too crippling for an offense, even with Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, to overcome, particularly in the postseason.”
Simmons’ hesitance on the offensive side of the ball was underscored during the 2021 NBA playoffs, with the Sixers’ second-round loss to the Hawks spurring trade rumors amid a poor shooting performance in the series.
The Warriors and 76ers have already discussed a trade for Simmons, but Golden State balked at Philly’s sky-high asking price.
But even with Klay Thompson and Steph Curry, Simmons may be too much of a net negative for the Dubs offense.