With the uncertainties surrounding Simmons’ health and return to the court in the 2021-22 NBA season, Swartz believes that the Nets must have regretted not sending him to a third team before the 2022 NBA trade deadline.
“While the Nets shouldn’t regret trading Harden, they should have pushed for a three-team deal instead,” Swartz said. “Sending Simmons to a rebuilding team or one that could be more patient with his recovery would have been best for all parties involved, especially if the Nets could have gotten a player like Tyrese Haliburton from the Sacramento Kings or CJ McCollum/Norman Powell from the Portland Trail Blazers.”
