Ben Simmons hints at return to 76ers amid NBA return rumors

The Philadelphia 76ers (9-8) find themselves in an unusual situation.

Philadelphia is home to one of the best backcourts in the NBA with Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Quinten Grimes and Jared McCain. However, they also have veteran stars Joel Embiid and Paul George under maximum contracts. That would suggest the 76ers are thriving, but the lack of availability of Embiid and George puts the team one game above .500.

Still, the 76ers are looking to compete for a championship in the wide-open Eastern Conference, which could pave the way for a shocking reunion.

Ben Simmons expresses interest in joining the 76ers

Former No. 1 pick Ben Simmons is still a free agent. He last appeared with the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2024-25 campaign, where he averaged 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists on 43.4% shooting in 18 games.

Simmons hinted at his intention to join the 76ers in his latest Instagram post. The post itself wasn’t basketball-related, but a fan’s comment caught the 29-year-old’s attention.

“You would be a great fit on this current Philly team. Maxey Edge becomes PG Ben Joel,” one user commented on Simmons’ post.

Simmons liked the comment, seemingly endorsing the idea of ​​signing with the 76ers. The screenshot garnered over 50,000 views in one day when it was posted on X.

Simmons spent the best years of his career in Philadelphia, earning three All-Star appearances and an All-NBA selection during his tenure. During his best season (2019-2020), the Australian guard averaged 16.4 points, 8 assists, 7.8 rebounds and 2.1 steals on 58% shooting.

Here’s how social media reacted to Simmons’ subtle hint:

@Blaise9_: “Barlow and Watford are better and he’s rubbish now, you all want someone.”

@Kam_Afi: “The man would approve of a job since he doesn’t have one lol.”

@TVMoviefan30: “No, Ben can’t shoot and he’s terrible at the line, no thanks. He doesn’t provide anything offensively.”

Although Simmons is no longer the player he once was, there is an argument that he can still make an impact on an NBA team.