Brooklyn Nets Receive: G/F Evan Fournier, G Derrick Rose, F Obi Toppin, 2023 First-Round Pick (DAL via NYK)
New York Knicks Receive: G/F Ben Simmons
With all of that in mind, it’s worth expanding on why Simmons is such a difficult player to work with.
We’re not referring to his people skills. Realistically, we’ve never had a conversation with the man – he’s probably lovely. On the other hand, working with him on a basketball floor is easier said than done.
Simmons can’t shoot threes. He can’t, and he won’t. For that reason, teams have to put a very specific roster around Simmons to maximize his abilities. If you don’t have a sweet shooting center in your lineup, you’re not going to be able to help Simmons function as a lead ball-handler.
On a related note, the Brooklyn Nets do not have a sweet-shooting big man on their roster. Of course, they could simply endeavor to go get one.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Ben Simmons, Brooklyn Nets & New York Knicks Updates
Still, one wonders if it’s worth the hassle. It could be more beneficial for the Nets to simply trade Simmons for role players who work alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
Does this deal accomplish that goal sufficiently?