Sixers' New 'Three-Point Specialist' Makes Arguable Ben Simmons Claim Amid Trade Rumors

A Philadelphia 76ers’ new addition has spoken highly of Ben Simmons.

Widespread rumors claim some NBA teams doubt whether Simmons could still be of great help inside the court following the three-time All-Star’s poor showing this past post-season.

However, according to Sixers’ “ newest three-point specialist ” Georges Niang, Simmons is still the type of player that could lead a team to the championship.

“The kid’s an All-Star,” Niang said of Simmons on Sirius XM NBA Radio. “Obviously, you’re saying it takes a certain guy to fit in Philly [the Sixers], but I think he’s a piece of the puzzle that helps you get to that point like I said, that puts you over the top to win a championship.”

“I don’t know what’s gonna happen, but like I said, I’m a huge fan of him and I’m a huge fan of his abilities,” he continued. “I don’t know what’s gonna happen, but they don’t pay me enough to make those decisions.”

As it stands, Simmons’ future with the Sixers is believed to be uncertain and the likelihood of a trade is still knocking.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are said to have continued discussions with the Sixers for a potential Simmons trade.

However, the said deal might require a third team in order for Philadelphia to get the most out of the 25-year-old’s departure, per The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski.

An anonymous Eastern Conference NBA scout, on the other hand, predicted that even though a Simmons trade “seems more likely than not,” it may not happen ASAP as there seems to be “no ideal place” for the point guard.

"Simmons’s value, though, is almost secondary to the fact that his unique style (a defense-first player who isn’t a threat to shoot and has a non-traditional impact on both ends) makes finding a fit difficult,” the scout told Sports Illustrated’s FanNation.

“Not to mention that the lasting image teams have of him from last season is his passing up the easiest shot on the court. That’s why, even though a trade seems more likely than not, it may be a while before it happens. To be honest, there’s really no ideal place for him.”

Last season, Simmons was a key figure in the dominant Sixers’ team that finished the season regular season with 49 wins and 23 losses, registering an impressive 14 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists per game.