Golden State Warriors were smart to avoid Ben Simmons

Throughout the last year, the Golden State Warriors have been featured in numerous rumors. One trade target to who they were tightly linked at various points was Ben Simmons.

On paper, there was an obvious argument for the trade to be made. Simmons, a skilled playmaker and hyper-versatile defender, could have been a natural fit surrounded by shooters in the Bay.

However, clear issues were hard to ignore. With Simmons’ inability to shoot, how could the Warriors play him alongside Draymond Green? Would trading Green be an upgrade at this point in his career?

Hindsight is 20/20 but most people could see the problem with a hypothetical trade for Simmons from day one. Now, we can safely say the Dubs made the right choice.

Trading for Ben Simmons could have derailed the Golden State Warriors this season and they should be thankful they avoided him.

I want to refrain from dogpiling on a guy who could be dealing with some serious issues. Whether it be genuine, physical back pain — or a mental block that has limited Simmons’ ability to get back on the court, I don’t want to make sweeping generalizations and unfairly kick a man while he is down.

With that being said, the Warriors made the correct decision straying away from a trade to acquire the three-time All-Star.

Simmons has not played a single game since his meltdown versus Atlanta in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. It is unclear when, or if he will ever, be able to return to the star-caliber player he once was.

Undoubtedly a talented player, Simmons has shown little improvement since entering the NBA. He’s also shown glaring mental weaknesses from the start.

Trading for Simmons could have put an early nail in the coffin for the Warriors this season. Considering their current position, the decision to stray away from Simmons was a smart one.