Despite signing Jordan Clarkson this week, the New York Knicks are reportedly in talks with broken former All-Star Ben Simmons.
The Knicks don’t have the money to make big moves. However, the assumption always was that they would try to find clever ways to improve their bench for next season. Well, so far so good after the organization reportedly agreed on team-friendly deals with Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele.
However, a new rumor on Wednesday revealed a surprising name that the organization reportedly has an interest in adding.
“The Knicks have also checked in on free agent Ben Simmons, per sources familiar with the matter,” SNY Knicks insider Ian Begley reports. “But people briefed on the matter say a decision on that roster spot isn’t expected until after the head coach is hired. Simmons has met with three other teams. And is expected to make a decision soon.”
Begley writes that New York can only offer a veteran’s minimum deal, which is $2.27 million next season. After finalizing the pair of deals with Clarkson and Yabusele, they will be hard-capped at the second tax apron of $207 million next season.
What happened to Ben Simmons?
There was a time when Simmons was one of the best young point guards in the game. After being the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, he missed his rookie year due to a broken bone in his foot. However, he would go on to be an All-Star in three of his next four seasons in the league.
However, a back injury and issues with Philadelphia 76ers management led to being traded to the Brooklyn Nets in 2022. Yet, once he finally returned to the floor, the 28-year-old has come nowhere close to recapturing his All-Star form during stints in Brooklyn and Los Angeles. There are concerns he will never be that player again.
Although he always had shooting weaknesses, at his best, Simmons was a high-level defender who could guard multiple positions. He was also an elite rebounder for a guard, a top-notch ball-handler, and one of the league’s better scorers around the rim.
More New York Knicks news and rumors:
- Knicks set to hire former NBA Coach of the Year to replace Tom Thibodeau
- Nine-time All-Star linked to Knicks in NBA free agency
- Prime Shaquille O’Neal almost signed with Knicks in 2004?
