The stage was set for Philadelphia 76ers to make their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2001. The Atlanta Hawks had dug themselves a hole. Down two points in the fourth quarter, Ben Simmons drove to the paint to find himself alone under the rim. Then came an infamous move that still remains in the minds of Sixers fans.

Ben Simmons passed up an open dunk in Game 7 of the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals that the NBA world cannot forget. This has gradually led to the most dramatic downfall for the 27-year-old. From All-Star appearances to coming off the bench, Simmons’ career has not been the same since this major mishap. However, a former Sixers star recently stated a different reason for the 3-time All-Star’s descent into chaos – coaching.

Former Sixers star blames coaching for Ben Simmons’ downfall

Since his infamous play, Simmons has had a shaky career. The 3-time All-Star ended up with the Brookyn Nets after forcing his way out of Philadelphia. Then came two shocking moves that left Simmons stranded in a team on their rebuild. At this point, it is unbelievable to think Simmons was competing for a Conference Final appearance just two years ago. However, while fans blamed Simmons’ pass up as the reason for his downfall, former Sixers star had other reasons.

In a recent appearance on former Washington Wizards guard, Gilbert Arenas’ podcast, Green weighed in on Simmons’ downfall. “It comes from within a person but it can come a lot from the sideline. You know the coaching has a big part to play with certain players of building and breaking certain guys’ confidence,” he stated.

“I’ve seen a lot of guys get a chance to groom and be better players…..I’ve seen certain guys who were really talented not get an opportunity or their confidence be broken because of a coach….this kid can actually shoot but the coach doesn’t havr confidence in him,” Green told the former All-Star. He then talked about Simmons’ situation, saying, “I don’t think Doc had anything to do with Ben….I’ve heard some stories, I was only there for two years so coaching before that….I’m sure they conducted with him differently on the court….”

Read More: Former 76er Who Saw Ben Simmons Pass-up the “Dunk” Against Trae Young and Co Recollects Events That Followed: “Not Blameless”

Danny Green cleared Doc Rivers’ name in this conversation, although blaming the coaching for Simmons’ struggles lately. However, with the 2023-24 season approaching, the Nets swingman will have a great opportunity to tap back into his All-Star calibre.

Simmons can be on a path to redemption

Ben Simmons had a shocking meltdown against Trae Young and the Hawks at the most infelicitous moment. A play that could have saved the Sixers turned into a season-ending disaster. Two years after the incident, Sixers fans still do not forgive the 27-year-old. His career too, has taken an unprecedented dive into chaos. However, the 2023-24 season may prove to be his chance of redemption. 

Simmons is on a roster that desperately needs his services. The Nets set off on their rebuild by adding young talent in return for their superstars, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. They transitioned from a “Big Three” era to a rebuild, putting Simmons at the helm. Now, the 3-time All-Star has a terrific opportunity to get back to his All-Star ways.

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After suffering major injuries as well as mental distress for the past two years, the 3-time All-Star can finally clock in a healthy season. Given the Nets’ situation, his experience would be crucial in supporting their young core. Here is where Simmons can take up the responsibility and prove his worth.