The OKC Thunder might want to seriously consider the idea of signing All-Star Ben Simmons to their 15 and final roster spot.
Following a one-year sabbatical, during which he focused on rehabilitating his chronic back injuries, the former All-Star just recently hinted at his interest in making an NBA comeback on his personal Instagram account.
As he searches for re-entry into the league, reports are that "several" teams have shown interest in his services. ESPN's Marc J. Spears has even gone on record to reveal that the 30-year-old has an offer from a West team to attend training camp.
Whether or not the Thunder are this said mystery team, there's a real argument to be made that they should have eyes on Simmons as a candidate to complete their rotation.
Thunder should consider buying low on Ben Simmons in free agency
Strictly from a skill-set standpoint, Simmons is the kind of player Sam Presti historically loves -- a long, versitile, defensive-minded talent who can slot into multiple positions within coach Mark Daigneault's rotation.
Simmons has always been quite an interesting player, as he sports the skill set of an old-school floor general, what with his pass-first mentality and career averages of 7.2 assists per game, yet boasts the build of a modern-day tweener-big with his stellar frame of 6-foot-10, 240 pounds.
Though a reluctance to shoot and nagging back issues have branded him as somewhat of an afterthought player, less than five years ago he was widely regarded as a franchise-leading talent who holds numerous accolades, including three All-Star nods, two All-Defensive team selections, and an All-NBA honor.
Someone of his caliber and age would be an insane get on a training camp invite.
Right now, the Thunder could use two specific things: more facilitators to help aid in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's desire to come across more off-ball scoring opportunities and extra perimeter defenders following the departure of Lu Dort this summer.
Simmons certainly has his limits as a player, especially when it comes to his offensive game, but he's without question someone who could effortlessly help provide OKC with both of these coveted attributes.
No, the idea of adding the former number one overall pick is far from seamless. However, if he were to tap back into his 76ers self, adding such a player to the second unit of this dynasty-pushing roster by way of a veteran minimum could wind up being a major steal.
At the very least, he's worth the Thunder shelling out a camp invite to.
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