Ben Simmons Says He’d Play for the Sixers for Free-But Is Philly Ready for That Conversation?
It’s been a while since Ben Simmons suited up in a Philadelphia 76ers jersey, but his name is suddenly floating back into the conversation-and not just because of fans reminiscing about what could’ve been. Simmons has been stirring the pot himself, engaging with fans on social media and hinting at a potential return to the team that once made him the No. 1 overall pick.
It started with a subtle move: Simmons liked a comment on one of his Instagram posts suggesting he’d be a great fit back in Philly. That alone was enough to raise eyebrows, but he didn’t stop there.
When a fan asked if he’d consider returning to the Sixers on a veteran’s minimum deal, Simmons didn’t hesitate-he said he’d do it. In fact, he went a step further, claiming he’d play in Philadelphia for free.
That’s a bold statement, and whether it’s posturing or genuine passion, it’s clear Simmons wants back in the league-and maybe even back in Philly.
Simmons’ Road Back: Still Long, Still Uncertain
Right now, Simmons remains away from the NBA, focusing on his rehab. There haven’t been any concrete updates on his progress or a timeline for his return, but his recent social media activity suggests he’s mentally locked in on making a comeback. The physical side, though, is still the big unknown.
It’s no secret that Simmons’ career arc has taken a steep and unfortunate turn. Once a perennial All-Star and one of the most dynamic two-way players in the league, he’s now on the outside looking in. The fall wasn’t sudden-it was a slow unraveling, starting with shaken confidence and compounded by a string of injuries that have derailed his momentum and damaged his market value.
Last season, Simmons had brief stints in Brooklyn and Los Angeles, but neither situation stuck. When free agency rolled around, interest was lukewarm at best. A few teams reportedly kicked the tires, but ultimately, Simmons and his camp decided to hit pause, opting to prioritize his health over rushing back into a situation that wasn’t the right fit.
Could Philly Actually Use Him?
Now, let’s talk about the fit-because, believe it or not, there’s a basketball case to be made here.
The Sixers have some clear needs right now. They could use more size on the wing, better defensive versatility, and a secondary playmaker who can ease the load off their stars.
Simmons, even in his current state, still brings elite court vision and defensive instincts. If he’s healthy-and that’s a massive if-those are two areas where he could make a real impact.
But the emotional baggage? That’s still there.
The way things ended between Simmons and the Sixers wasn’t just messy-it was public, prolonged, and painful for both sides. From the playoff struggles to the holdout to the eventual trade, it was a saga that left scars.
A reunion would require not just a clean bill of health, but a level of trust and transparency that simply didn’t exist at the end of his first stint.
Is a Reunion Realistic?
Right now, there’s no indication that the Sixers are actively pursuing Simmons-or that they’re even entertaining the idea. The front office has moved on, and the roster has evolved.
Still, Simmons’ comments throw an interesting wrinkle into the mix. They show a player who’s humbled, hungry, and possibly ready to accept a role far different from the one he once held.
That doesn’t mean the Sixers should jump at the opportunity. The injury concerns are real.
The history is complicated. And the team has its sights set on contending now, not revisiting the past.
But if Simmons can prove he’s healthy-and if he’s truly willing to accept a reduced role-then maybe, just maybe, there’s a path forward.
Final Thoughts
Ben Simmons saying he’d play for the Sixers for free is the kind of quote that grabs headlines, but it also reveals something deeper: a player who still wants to belong, who still believes he has something to offer. Whether that journey leads back to Philadelphia or somewhere else remains to be seen. But for the first time in a long time, Simmons is signaling that he’s ready to write a new chapter.
The question is: will the Sixers be part of it? The ball, as they say, is in their court.