Why the Los Angeles Lakers Cannot Sign $170 Million Philadelphia 76ers Superstar and How It Affects Their Championship Odds

The Los Angeles Lakers’ rumored pursuit of Ben Simmons remains nothing more than speculation, with multiple financial, roster, and strategic roadblocks making a deal highly improbable.

Salary Cap Hurdles that Prevent the Los Angeles Lakers from Signing Ben Simmons

Ben Simmons’ $33 million-plus salary is the biggest stumbling block. Under NBA trade rules, the Los Angeles Lakers - already a luxury tax team - must send out comparable salaries to acquire him. With LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook on massive contracts, matching Simmons’ deal would require trading away multiple key role players and minimum-salary pieces, effectively gutting the roster. Moving a core star to make the numbers work is unrealistic, and Philadelphia is unlikely to settle for lesser assets.

Roster Limit Restrictions for the Lakers

Even if the finances lined up, the Los Angeles Lakers face another roadblock: roster capacity. With 15 players under contract, they can’t add anyone until at least January 18 unless they waive or trade a player. This leaves no immediate pathway to bring Simmons on board.

Ben Simmons’ Fit and Performance Concerns

Beyond logistics, Simmons’ recent track record raises doubts. While he’s still an elite defender and strong playmaker, his scoring limitations and lack of shooting could worsen the Lakers’ existing floor-spacing issues.

Injuries and inconsistent performances in recent seasons further diminish his appeal.

Strategic Priorities for Los Angeles

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he Lakers have reportedly explored more attainable targets, such as Jerami Grant, who comes with a smaller contract and fewer health concerns. Maintaining roster balance, preserving cap flexibility, and avoiding high-risk moves remain the front office’s focus - factors that push a Simmons deal far down the priority list.A Los Angeles Lakers-Simmons pairing faces too many obstacles: an unworkable salary match, no open roster spots, fit concerns, and competing priorities. While the idea may spark fan debates, the practical reality is that Simmons is unlikely to wear purple and gold anytime soon.In the end, the Lakers’ connection to Ben Simmons feels more like a headline than a realistic plan. With financial hurdles, roster limits, and on-court fit concerns all stacked against the move, Los Angeles seems destined to keep exploring safer, more practical options rather than chasing an improbable blockbuster.Also read: NBA Trade News: Los Angeles Clippers Sign $11.4 Million Golden State Warriors Star Forward in Pre-Season Roster ShakeupLet us know in the comments if you think Simmons would have been a good addition to the Lakers roster.