Lu: Simmons failed to play in the Clippers, I need to be fully responsible, and the ball rights issue has not been resolved

Recently, Clippers head coach Tyron Lu participated in a podcast program for "Club Shay Shay" and talked about Ben Simmons who played for the team last season.

Tyron Lue said: "First of all, I cannot help Simmons revive his career after he suffered psychological struggles and injuries."

"The core issue is the issue of ball distribution. Harden, Leonard and Simmons all need to have the ball in hand, especially Simmons. His lack of ball will amplify his shooting flaws. I didn't solve this problem, so I feel guilty."

Ben Simmons still played some highlights when he first played the Jazz. I remember that he performed very comprehensively and efficiently in the Clippers' debut. In this game, Simmons played for 27 minutes, made 4 of 5 shots, and made 4 of 4 free throws, effectively contributing 12 points, 8 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals and 1 block, and had zero mistakes in the game. He replaced Zubac as center in the final quarter and overtime, limiting the Jazz's offense with speed and defensive judgment, and connecting the team to counterattack many times. In the last 25 seconds of overtime, Simmons successfully interfered with the Jazz's key offense and created an opportunity for Powell to secure the victory.

Harden praised Simmons in a post-match interview, calling him a "defensive master". The next few games were also remarkable, but Simmons then suffered a knee injury, which was completely different after returning. Until the playoffs, Tyron Lu gave up using Simmons and gave very little playing time. After the Clippers were eliminated in the playoffs, they did not intend to renew Simmons, and Simmons later became a free agent.

Simmons' next home is not yet settled. Although rumors have been circulating with the Knicks, there is no follow-up. A reporter reported that Simmons wanted a contract that was higher than the basic salary, but there were really few teams that could be given. After all, his attendance rate was there, and no matter how capable he was, it would be useless if he didn't play.

However, some media reported that Simmons's mind is no longer on the court. He has invested in many companies in private and has made money. Now he can live a good life without relying on his NBA salary.

Tyron Lue finally said: "The root of Simmons' dilemma is still in the 76ers' G7 against the Hawks in the second round of the Eastern Conference in 2021, and the injury further exacerbated the problem. Simmons not only underwent back surgery, but also had to overcome knee problems after joining the Clippers this season. It can be seen that he is working hard to return to the court, which is commendable."

Some fans said that Tyron Lue will need to face the same problem next season, because Bill is also a player who needs the ball rights, which proves this in the Suns. If he does not have the ball in hand, he will struggle and his defense is also average. Tyron Lu will definitely not let him play as a substitute, so whether it is the lineup or the ball, these need to be solved by Tyron Lu. Otherwise, the Clippers will definitely not go far. Even if they enter the playoffs, they will be eliminated in two rounds at most. What's more, the team can play a group of veterans, and it's over if any main player is injured.

What do you think? Does Tyron Lu have the ability to solve it? Don’t forget that Paul also needs the ball on the bench. How should the four defenders, Harden, Bill, Paul and Dunn, play together?