Ben Simmons Could Return to Philadelphia 76ers Amid NBA Free Agency Rumors Ben Simmons, the Australian point guard, is reportedly considering a return to the Philadelphia 76ers after more than four years since his controversial departure from the team. The 30-year-old player, who sat out the 2025-26 NBA season as a professional fisherman, hinted at his potential comeback during an interview with Men’s Health magazine. Simmons, who previously played for the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, expressed interest in rejoining the 76ers, a team that once dubbed him “Young King.” Simmons revealed he has intensified his training regimen, dedicating up to three hours daily to strength and conditioning, along with court sessions, to prepare for a potential return. “I plan on getting as strong as I can physically, getting my ass on the court, and then the team realising that my abilities will be needed,” he said. His comments come as the 76ers explore options to fill their final roster spot after assembling a superteam featuring LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Tyrese Maxey, and Joel Embiid. The 76ers’ pathway to signing Simmons hinges on the Veteran Minimum Exception, a rule allowing teams over the salary cap to sign players without needing cap space. James, 41, signed with the 76ers for the veteran minimum contract (USD $3,876,529) with a player option for 2027-28, creating an opportunity for Simmons to join the roster. The team currently has 17 players plus two two-way players on their cap sheet, making Simmons’ addition a strategic move to bolster depth. Simmons’ former agent, Rich Paul, who also represents LeBron James, emphasized Simmons’ potential value. Paul noted that Simmons could still command a $30 million salary if he adapts to a role as a “pick-and-roll five,” leveraging his playmaking skills.#lebron_james #philadelphia_76ers #jock_landale #ben_simmons #david_patrick
