The Los Angeles Lakers are actively exploring options to improve their roster ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season, with Ben Simmons emerging as a prime target. The team aims to add depth on defense and reduce the burden on LeBron James and Luka Doncic as they compete for another championship. This article provides a comprehensive look at how this potential trade could unfold, the advantages and drawbacks for both the Los Angeles Lakers and Ben Simmons, and why this move could be a turning point for both parties.
Trade Mechanics: How the Los Angeles Lakers Could Acquire Ben Simmons Amid Salary Constraints
Acquiring Ben Simmons will not be simple for the Los Angeles Lakers, who are already paying hefty salaries to stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. With Simmons’ annual salary exceeding $33 million, the Lakers would need to match salaries by moving multiple role players or minimum-salary contracts. Furthermore, their 15-player roster limit would force them to create space through trades or waivers before finalizing any deal.
These limitations suggest that any Ben Simmons acquisition would likely occur at the January trade deadline, unless an earlier trade package opens up cap room. The complexity of salary matching and roster management is the primary hurdle to the Lakers signing Ben Simmons.
Defensive Impact: How Ben Simmons Could Relieve the Lakers’ Defensive Woes
Ben Simmons offers the Los Angeles Lakers an immediate defensive upgrade. Standing at 6’9” and possessing elite athleticism and mobility, Simmons can guard multiple positions and switch effectively in high-stakes moments. His presence on the floor would reduce the defensive load on both LeBron James and Luka Doncic, allowing them to conserve energy for offensive output.
Additionally, Simmons’ rim protection and perimeter defense would be crucial in playoff matchups where opponents exploit defensive gaps. His ability to handle the ball and facilitate offense also provides the Lakers with a secondary playmaker, especially when Doncic rests. For a team frequently struggling with defensive depth, Simmons’ arrival could be transformative.
Role and Revival: How Joining the Lakers Could Reignite Ben Simmons’ Career
For Ben Simmons, the Los Angeles Lakers present a chance at career redemption. Having faced criticism for inconsistent performances and poor shooting, Simmons could thrive in a role where his defensive abilities are prioritized over offensive responsibilities.
The Lakers’ veteran leadership, particularly from LeBron James, could offer guidance and structure to Simmons’ game. A defined role with fewer offensive expectations would allow him to rebuild confidence while contributing meaningfully on defense. Furthermore, playing for a contender provides Simmons with greater playoff exposure, increasing his value and standing in the league.
Ben Simmons’ Recent Performance: Statistics That Highlight His Defensive Value
During the 2024-25 season, split between the Brooklyn Nets and LA Clippers, Ben Simmons was primarily utilized for his defense and playmaking. His offensive role was limited, but his defensive impact remained significant.
Despite limited minutes and role changes, Simmons’ defensive rating remained solid, underscoring his value as a defensive asset. With LeBron James and Luka Doncic averaging nearly 27 – 28 points per game, adding Simmons to shore up defensive vulnerabilities could be critical for playoff success.
Who Gains More from the Trade: Lakers’ Championship Hopes vs Simmons’ Redemption
Strategically, the Los Angeles Lakers stand to gain more from signing Ben Simmons, provided they can navigate salary cap challenges. His defensive ability complements the team’s strengths and compensates for their bench weaknesses. If Simmons adjusts to a reduced offensive role, his defensive impact could significantly elevate the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
On the other hand, Ben Simmons needs this opportunity more than the Lakers need him. His offensive limitations would remain, and he would be under pressure to perform defensively in critical moments. However, the chance to learn from LeBron James and compete for a title makes this move a rare chance for redemption and career resurgence.
Potential Ripple Effects: What the Trade Means for Teams Beyond the Lakers and Simmons
Should the Los Angeles Lakers acquire Ben Simmons, the ripple effects would be felt league-wide. Teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, if involved in a sign-and-trade, would lose a key defensive player. Other Western Conference rivals would have to adjust their lineups to counter the improved Lakers defense.
For Simmons, the trade offers a new narrative – no longer a player defined by struggles but rather a veteran defender essential to one of the league’s most iconic franchises.
Is This a Risk Worth Taking?
The Los Angeles Lakers risk salary cap complications and possible roster disruptions by acquiring Ben Simmons, but the defensive upgrade and depth he offers could be exactly what the team needs in a highly competitive playoff landscape. For Ben Simmons, the trade presents both pressure and opportunity – a chance to rebuild his career under the guidance of seasoned leaders.
Opinion on the Trade:
• Los Angeles Lakers gain a versatile defender and secondary playmaker who could extend their title run if managed effectively.
• Ben Simmons gains a structured role, mentorship, and exposure in high-stakes matchups, though at the cost of a reduced offensive profile.
• Other teams, like the Philadelphia 76ers, face the challenge of filling the void left by his departure.
If executed well, the Los Angeles Lakers’ pursuit of Ben Simmons could be a calculated gamble that pays off, making it one of the most intriguing trade stories of the NBA offseason.
