Ben Simmons, former number one draft pick, is one of the most controversial NBA players of recent times.
Simmons, a former Philadelphia 76ers point guard, has had to deal with numerous issues that have kept him off the court, including injuries and mental health issues. Despite missing a ton of time in his eight-year career, he has collected some big paychecks. NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith is among those critical of how Simmons’ journey in the league has gone so far.
“The only injury I’ve ever questioned is that damn Ben Simmons. Don’t get me started on that damn Ben Simmons. He’s lucky he’s not in prison for robbery,” Smith said on The OGs Show with Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller. “I’m sure he worked out here. I’m sure out of all the places he could focus and concentrate on his basketball prowess, he’ll pick Miami.”
Stephen A. Smith says Ben Simmons is lucky he’s “not in prison for robbery.” ??
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Simmons appeared in 57 games over the past three seasons, averaging 6.7 points and 6.7 rebounds on 57% shooting. He is expected to be back to full fitness for the start of the 2024-25 season, but few are confident he will remain in top form. It’s also a big question whether the 27-year-old will play anywhere else next year, given that he doesn’t fit the Brooklyn Nets’ schedule.
“Don’t get me started on this brother. I know he couldn’t shoot, but he doesn’t want to play at all. He doesn’t love the game,” Smith shared. “I’m not saying he wasn’t injured, but I’m talking about an absence for the love of the game. Remember, he was missing games before he got hurt. They talked about mental health. We can’t downplay the importance of mental health. The reason I’m critical of that is because that never stopped you from making sure that check was in your account every two weeks.”
