Analyst cautions Lakers against Ben Simmons recruitment
Colin Keane of Lake Show Life highlights perimeter shooting deficits and past performance concerns as Simmons attempts return via Australian national team minicamp
A writer has cautioned the Los Angeles Lakers against pursuing former NBA All-Star Ben Simmons, citing significant concerns regarding his perimeter shooting and mental resilience. The warning comes as Simmons is reportedly participating in a player-led minicamp for the Australian national team, an effort aimed at securing a return to the NBA.
Colin Keane of Lake Show Life argued that while the Lakers have a need for a starting-level wing or forward, Simmons lacks the two-way play required for such a role. Specifically, Keane noted that the team requires excellent three-point shooting, a skill Simmons has historically struggled to provide.
Simmons, who is 30 years old, was once regarded as a promising young talent with ample athleticism and defensive strength. However, his career trajectory shifted following a trade demand from the Philadelphia 76ers in 2021. Since then, he has faced a decline in production, injury issues, and criticism regarding his refusal to shoot from outside the paint.
During the 2024-25 season, Simmons appeared in 18 regular-season games and five playoff games for the Los Angeles Clippers. Keane described his performance as solid but unexciting, suggesting that the intrigue surrounding a potential return does not translate to on-court execution.
The article also references Simmons’ 2021 Eastern Conference semifinals series against the Atlanta Hawks as evidence of mental resilience issues. Critics point to his performance in Game 7, where he scored just five points on four shot attempts and passed up an open dunk. Following the loss, coach Doc Rivers expressed uncertainty about Simmons’ suitability as a starting point guard on a championship team, a comment that preceded Simmons’ trade demand.
