The Phoenix Suns were interested in signing Ben Simmons, but their addition of Jordan Goodwin changed that, according to Jake Fischer. Goodwin was only available because the Lakers waived him to sign Marcus Smart. The Suns were ecstatic to bring him back, and LA did not want to part with the 6’3 guard after he showed flashes last season. Smart was too good to pass up, and the Lakers' signing ultimately saved the Suns from bringing in Simmons.
The 6’10 point forward is far from the All-Star fans remember in his Sixers days. The 29-year-old averaged 5.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 1.0 steal in 23.9 minutes per game over the three seasons. He has appeared in just 108 contests over that stretch and rarely looks to score. Simmons is strictly a facilitator and rebounder who becomes unplayable in the biggest moments.
The Suns are trying to build a defensive identity, but Simmons is a flawed player who doesn’t fit next to Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Mark Williams, or Khaman Maluach. His best position is as a small-ball five or four next to a big man shooter. Phoenix doesn’t have those pieces and would have instantly regretted bringing Simmons on board.
The Suns should thank the Lakers twice for the Jordan Goodwin addition
Goodwin is a rotation player capable of defending at the point of attack and making a few plays. He shot 38.2 percent from 3-point range with the Lakers last season and should be a connective piece for the Suns. The 26-year-old is in his prime and fits in multiple different lineups. It was a fantastic add and got even sweeter with the latest rumors.
The Suns needed some ball-handling and playmaking before adding Jordan Goodwin. Simmons is a name and can still dish out dimes. It is not difficult to see the on-paper appeal, but the three-time All-Star can only play in the right lineups. Teams must put shooters and other creators around him. Phoenix is light on floor spacers and would have struggled to find the right fits for Simmons.
They dodged an absolute bullet if Jake Fischer’s reporting proves true. Ben Simmons would have come on the minimum, but the fit was simply not right. Suns fans have witnessed firsthand what it is like having the wrong pieces that must play over the last two seasons. Owner Mat Ishbia and the front office should be doing everything possible to avoid those mistakes. Clearly, that was not the case here.
The Phoenix Suns have a full 15-man roster after adding Jordan Goodwin and Jared Butler. There are still moves to make if they want to dodge the luxury tax, but those may wait until midseason. They are out on Ben Simmons, and fans should be ecstatic.
Everyone should be thanking the Lakers. Without LA waiving Jordan Goodwin, Simmons may be in the Valley and thinking he will play a significant role this season. It was certainly a bullet dodged for the Suns.