A potential Ben Simmons-76ers reunion appears unlikely unless Philadelphia clears additional salary below the first-apron hard cap.
Recent rumors have linked Ben Simmons with a possible return to the Philadelphia 76ers, but the franchise’s current financial situation makes an immediate reunion difficult.
NBA insider Brett Siegel explained that Philadelphia is operating extremely close to its first-apron hard cap and does not currently have enough flexibility to sign Simmons – or another veteran – to a minimum contract.
“The 76ers are only $1.8 million below their first-apron hard cap,” Siegel reported. “There’s been no talk of them getting rid of anyone on their current roster, and therefore [they] can’t sign Simmons or someone else to a minimum.”
Simmons open to Philadelphia return
Simmons recently made it clear that he is not closing the door on an NBA comeback, with Philadelphia among the destinations he would consider.
“Maybe I’ll go back to Philly,” Simmons told Men’s Health Magazine while discussing a potential return to the league.
The 29-year-old also mentioned the Miami Heat as another appealing destination, praising head coach Erik Spoelstra, the organization, and Miami’s established culture.
“Miami would be nice,” Simmons added.
Philadelphia reunion would create major storyline
Ben Simmons
Credit AP-Scanpix
Simmons began his NBA career with the 76ers after being selected with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft.
During his time in Philadelphia, the Australian became Rookie of the Year, a three-time All-Star, an All-NBA selection, and one of the league’s most versatile defenders.
However, his tenure ended dramatically after he did not play during the 2021-22 season and was eventually traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of the James Harden deal.
Simmons most recently represented the Nets and Los Angeles Clippers. During the 2024-25 season, he averaged 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds across 51 appearances.
Back injuries have played a major role in his decline following his All-Star years, but a return to Philadelphia would still rank among the NBA’s most intriguing comeback stories.
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