KEY POINTS

  • A minor league president feels Ben Simmons just needs proper guidance
  • The Sixers are still figuring out how to deal with the Simmons situation 
  • The Pistons' generous offer for Simmons has been thumbed down by the Sixers

Most have been critical of Ben Simmons as a player, but The Basketball League (TBL) president David Magley provides a different take.

As far as Magley is concerned, the 6-foot-11 cager just needs the right kind of coach to set him straight.

Magley weighed in Simmons when he appeared on the Sports For All PH podcast hosted by Vincent Juico and Brian Yalung.

“I don’t think it’s because he can’t shoot. I think it’s [because] they’re frustrated with what going on with him emotionally and mentally. Is he going to show up? Is he going to compete? Is he going to fold? Is he going to play?” Magley stated.

“I think he is a wonderfully gifted young man that needs the right coach to get in his head and work with him. The right guy will make a big difference for him. But it’s gotta be someone who has a lot of grace and patience. And he’s [Simmons] got to know that they believe in him."

This comes on the heels of reports that the Philadelphia 76ers are standing pat on wanting an All-Star caliber player in exchange for Simmons.

Several names have been mentioned, and there is no telling what Sixers president Daryl Morey truly wants for the Australian cager.

The Detroit Pistons, a team that appears headed for a rebuild, have reportedly offered three names plus a first-round pick in exchange for Simmons.

According to Jake Fischer of the Bleacher Report, Jerami Grant, Saddiq Bey and Kelly Olynyk together with a first-round pick were offered to the Sixers in exchange for the disgruntled player.

The haul appears more than generous, but it appears it was not enough to make an impression on Philly.

Fischer claimed that the offer was met with little enthusiasm.

Looking at the offer as a whole, it was a pretty competitive offer for someone like Simmons.

Considering the former top pick has yet to tip elite level status, it was a decent offer that the Sixers appear to be passing up on.

From the mix, the name of Grant is worth noting. The 27-year-old is believed to be on the radar of multiple teams, but nothing has gained ground.

Given that the NBA trade deadline is fast approaching, it almost seems apparent that the 6-foot-8 forward will be donning a new uniform by February 10.

Bey and Olynyk are players who could bring value to any team as well.

Bey is considered one of the Pistons' best talents who made the All-Rookie First Team last season.

Olynyk, on the other hand, is a veteran who has proven to be efficient. His stock has been rising and is someone who can efficiently contribute to any team.

Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers
Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers Getty Images | Kevin C. Cox