Steve Kerr has built an excellent reputation for his ability to integrate unique players into devastating lineups in Golden State. Ben Simmons is perhaps the most difficult player to build an effective team in the NBA. It makes sense that the Warriors would be interested in signing the former No. 1 pick if the Nets acquire him later this year.

NBA analyst Bill Simmons believes the Australian could become a “mad” replacement for Draymond Green in Golden State.

“I think he (Simmons) has a chance to become one of the most intriguing players in the February buyout in a few years because he could be the center for New Orleans. He could be an absolutely crazy replacement for Draymond Green to Golden State,” Simmons said: h/t Blue Man Hoop.

Like Green, Simmons is also a versatile big man who has the athletic tools to be a defensive nightmare for opponents. Unlike Green, Simmons hasn’t shown the fire required to be that kind of defender at a high level.

It’s conceivable that Golden State’s change plan could make the most of Simmons’ versatility as a defender. He has the speed and foot length to stay in front of most big wings and big men. He doesn’t have the speed to stay ahead of the NBA’s best point guards, but he can hold his own in short bursts against those kinds of stars thanks to his length.

Simmons would also be a tricky offensive choice in Golden State. Green works as an elite passer with the starters as he is just enough of a shooter to force opponents to guard him on the perimeter. Simmons’ outside shooting is non-existent. Simmons would need the ball in his hands to attract that kind of attention from opposing defenses with the Warriors. This won’t happen every time Steph Curry is on the court.

The most likely outcome of Simmons’ offensive success in Golden State is giving him the freedom to serve as an offensive creator for the team’s second unit. The idea of ​​combining him with Jonathan Kuminga as a pick-and-roll duo is intriguing. Kerr could also deploy Simmons at the high post with the ball in his hands to see if he can unlock Simmons’ elite passing ability.

If any NBA team can find a way to get positive value out of Simmons, it would be the Warriors. Only Kerr and the brains on the team can decide if putting this unique big man in a position to succeed is worth it. This is the type of deal that could pay off big for a veteran team in need of an infusion of talent.