1. Ben Simmons
Not only would a trade for Dejounte Murray have impacted Cam Thomas, but perhaps to an even greater extent it would have negitivelty effected Ben Simmons for a number of reasons.
Considering his literally non-existent shooting abilities and elite distributing and ball-handling skills, Brooklyn's former All-Star is essentially only serviceable and, in many ways, impactful when used as a primary floor general.
Had the Nets brought on Murray, or any other rumored point guard target, it almost certainly would have taken the ball out of Simmons' hands at a considerably high rate which, being that is his main way of being an effective offensive weapon, would have essentially rendered him useless on the more glamorous side of the ball.
Now, with the team's lacking moves for a star coupled with the departure of Spencer Dinwiddie, moving forward the 27-year-old will remain the focal point at the one which, assuming he can stay healthy, could prove to have substantial success both in the individual and overall team department.
Ben 10 slam 😤 pic.twitter.com/bdCWRDIduo
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) February 9, 2024
This season, Simmons finds himself posting averages of 6.4 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 6.5 assists while shooting 59.6 percent from the floor.
With him now back on the floor following a nearly two-month absence, one should expect these numbers to only increase as the season progresses and, with no one competing with him as the club's primary handler and facilitator, we could begin to see glimpses of what made him a perennial All-Star just a few short seasons ago.
Confidence is the key and, with no competition, expect Simmons to be flush with it during this second half stretch.