Sometimes it's good to laugh. And Miami Heat fans could get a good one if the latest whispers (according to Jake Fischer) are accurate, that the Philadelphia 76ers at least explored the option of bringing back Ben Simmons in what would be categorized as a redemption story.
At least for now, the Sixers have not outright signed Simmons, but he's still a free agent, and I suppose that idea isn't completely off the table just yet. With a few weeks before the start of training camp, it may still be something that is being discussed behind closed doors.
However, if that's something the organization does move forward with, Heat fans could get some humor in it. As the Sixers attempt to pick themselves back up after a disastrous season a year ago, it's not ideal that they could be looking for any level of spark, even if it does mean bringing back Simmons.
Additionally, for a team that has recently struggled to stay healthy throughout the course of the season, I'm not sure Simmons (and his injury history) is going to be part of the solution for the team this year.
In fairness, if Simmons and Joel Embiid have truly repaired their relationship, as Fischer does seem to suggest, I suppose it would be a good story.
Heat or Sixers?
As the countdown for training camp continues, one of the bigger competitions for the Heat this season will likely include the Sixers. Miami is expected to fight for one of the final playoff spots in the Eastern Conference, and the Sixers are probably going to do the same.
On paper, much more should be expected from the Sixers, but because it's hard to rely on health for this team, the overwhelming expectation is that the Sixers will be right there with the Heat, battling for one of the 5-8 seeds.
To be quite honest, it's hard to pick between these two teams in who you would trust more heading into this upcoming season.
The Sixers theoretically are the more talented team, but the Heat is the team that has been more consistent of late. Sure, Jimmy Butler is no longer part of the equation, but Miami's roster is certainly going to be better to start this season than they were by the end of last season.
Even though it won't be for conference supremacy, the rivalry between the Heat and Sixers moves forward this year.