Simmons Could Be a Magic Free Agency Signing for Orlando

Although Orlando Magic did not enjoy a dream finale to the 2024/25 season, they undoubtedly took another step towards challenging for the NBA championship.

Their 41-41 record in the regular season was enough to clinch the Southeast division title and ensure post-season action. However, they did not get far in the play-offs. 

They were defeated by the Boston Celtics in the first round. Magic will be looking to go further next season and are already shaking up the squad. 

There are a few intriguing players available in free agency, but one that many people will be keeping a close eye on is Australian small forward Ben Simmons.

Orlando have previously been linked with the former All-Star and he could be an intriguing option for them. If he signs for Magic, sports bettors in Australia will be in raptures.

Aussie punters love wagering on NBA games and the sportsbooks featured on comparison website https://australianbettingsites.net.au/ offer a wide range of markets on the league.

If Magic acquire Simmons this summer, their odds to win the NBA title would likely tumble. Bettors in his homeland would be eager to support their compatriot.

While Simmons has not been linked with Orlando, it would be no surprise if they joined the race to sign him this summer.

Simmons is Gathering Traction Again

Simmons was once considered a generational two-way force, but his career has not gone to plan after he was selected first overall in the 2016 NBA Draft. 

He has subsequently gone from being an All-Star with the Philadelphia 76ers to struggling with injuries and mental health issues.

His most recent spell with the Los Angeles Clippers was underwhelming. He did not get a lot of game time, so it is understandable why he could only muster an average of 2.9 points.

However, there were encouraging signs to take from his time with the Clippers. Simmons showcased his quality in passing, defensive prowess and ability to play a supporting role.

That shift in mentality could be exactly what keeps him relevant in the NBA. Simmons does not seem to be bothered about no longer being considered a ‘mega-star’.

He can fit in as a versatile defender who guards multiple positions, pushes pace in transition and pulls the strings with his impressive eye for a pass.

Simmons is not the best shooter, and his injury record makes for grim reading, but he still has plenty to offer, which is why several NBA teams are circling with intent.

Orlando Eager to Build on a Hit-and-Miss Season

Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner showed their worth last season, but it was clear that Orlando lacked talent in the backcourt after losing Jalen Suggs to injury during the play-offs.

Their offense sputtered, finishing 27th in points per possession and 28th in offensive rating. They shot 31.8 percent from beyond the arc at one point, which is the worst by an NBA team in nearly a decade.

The Magic were so awful in shooting, even Banchero’s mother publicly questioned their offensive structure. But they still managed to finish the season strongly.

They won 10 of their last 14 regular-season games. Their already elite defence ranked second in the league by the end of the season.

The Magic became even more dangerous when their shooters finally started hitting the target. They racked up 46.1% of their wide-open three-pointers down the stretch.

They even eased past the Atlanta Hawks in the Play-In round and went toe to toe with Boston in the play-off first round, despite eventually losing 4-1 in the series.

Orlando have the talent to make a deep run in the play-offs, but they still need more reliable options in the backcourt.

Magic Should Take a Chance on Simmons

The Magic have revamped their backcourt by replacing Cole Anthony, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Gary Harris with Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones.

They also drafted Jase Richardson and Noah Penda to add long-term depth. But they still need a versatile defensive wildcard off the bench to take some pressure off Banchero and Wagner.

Simmons could be that missing piece. He would not need to shoot. He would simply need to be the connective tissue, especially in line-ups that set up defence-first.

There are several reasons why Orlando should not sign Simmons. His injury woes are still a massive red flag. There is also the question of offensive fit. The Magic’s offence is already fragile. 

Adding a non-shooter does the squad balance no good. However, Simmons is a versatile defender and makes clever passes – he is undoubtedly an interesting proposition

Magic could acquire Simmons on a short-term deal. That way, they can move on easily if it does not work without dealing with any long-term damage to their squad.

If Simmons is willing to take the plunge with Magic, the sportsbooks listed on australianbettingsites.net.au could be forced to trim their odds on them winning the title.

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