Ben Simmons continues to be an enigma for the Brooklyn Nets, leaving the club scratching their heads about whether to retain his services or let him walk.
The Australian guard is in the final year of his lucrative contract with the Nets, but he has spent a large chunk of that time struggling with recurring injury problems.
Simmons has shown glimpses of a resurgence this season but the Nets want to be sure it is not a mere facade before deciding on his future.
The Nets haven’t lit up the NBA this season, but Simmons has performed relatively well. His long-term future will likely dominate the headlines for the rest of the campaign.
Simmons is a polarising figure both in the NBA and for fans in his native Australia. The Nets have become a popular pick with Aussie sports bettors due to Simmons’ presence on the team.
If the Nets decide to retain his services, betting apps in Australia will continue to be inundated with wagers on their NBA games over the next few seasons.
However, if Simmons is axed by the club, punters will switch their betting focus onto another NBA team, assuming he remains in North America.
Simmons has Failed to Justify his Salary
Simmons has spent five years with the Nets, but he has been a massive disappointment for the outrageous salary he commands.
Coming into the final season of a five-year, $177 million contract he signed in 2020, Simmons will take home $40.3m this year, making him the highest-paid player on the Nets roster.
Aside from his injury woes, Simmons’ mind-boggling salary - $12.7m more than the second highest Nicolas Claxton - will play a huge role in the club’s decision-making process.
Simmons has been efficient on either side of the court this season, showcasing his elite playmaking ability. He is also solid in rebounds and is versatile enough to slot into multiple positions.
However, he hasn’t done much to make the headlines, and his output is not good enough for a player of his calibre and salary demands. Simmons’s situation leaves the Nets in a dilemma as they struggle to align his contributions with their trajectory as a team.
Getting rid of his ridiculous salary will allow the Nets to reinvest in the team, but the plan is far from straightforward, with NBA clubs distancing themselves from a potential move for Simmons.
None of them are willing to take him on his current wages. He isn’t seen as a value-for-money trade as his output fails to justify his substantial salary, which leaves the Nets in a difficult position.
Simmons will likely see out his contract and enter unrestricted free agency next year. The Nets can still explore the possibility of bringing him back, but he would have to take a sizeable pay cut.
Nets Could Still be Valuable to the Nets
There is a compelling argument to be made for allowing Simmons to walk after this season. His salary demands - even on a reduced deal – may still outweigh the benefits he brings to a team in transition.
The Nets should consider using their resources to develop younger talents and snap up players who align with their project. Simmons has a unique skill set, but he does not tick those boxes.
His limitations as a scorer could also be a sticking point. Simmons is having the most efficient season of his career in terms of field-goal percentage. He has been efficient in attacking the basket and is still an elite passer and solid rebounder, but there have been issues with his shooting.
While his efficiency around the basket is commendable, Simmons has struggled to expand his offensive ability, whether it's taking mid-range jumpers or improving his free-throw shooting.
He has not evolved as a player, but play-off teams could be interested in signing him if they’re looking for a versatile playmaker, which means he should get minimum contract offers at least.
A change of scenery might be what Simmons needs. Changing teams could allow him to thrive in a more complementary role rather than carrying the weight of the Nets on his shoulders.
Moving on from Simmons seems like a no-brainer for the Nets, but keeping him might not be the worst idea in the world. His strengths as a passer, defender and transition player are still highly sought-after abilities in the NBA.
Simmons has shown flashes of his brilliance under head coach Jordi Fernandez, so there is no reason why he can’t continue to improve in the right environment.
He could also be a leader in the dressing room if the Nets proceed with their plans to revamp the team. His experience as a former All-Star and his basketball IQ could be crucial in mentoring younger players.
Simmons could still be a valuable player for the Nets, but only if he agrees to revised terms.
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