NBA Rumors: Ben Simmons Facing Possible NBA Exit, But Knicks Still Keeping Tabs

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by Raymund Tamayo

Former Clippers star Ben Simmons.
Former Clippers star Ben Simmons. Photo: NBA.com.

The rollercoaster career of Ben Simmons may be nearing its end. According to a report by Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, the former No. 1 overall pick could walk away from the NBA altogether.

Even so, the New York Knicks have reportedly kept the door open for a potential partnership with the three-time All-Star, despite his recent struggles.

Simmons split the 2024-25 season between the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers. He suited up for 33 games in Brooklyn before a buyout led him to L.A., where he logged 18 more appearances. In total, he posted averages of 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists while shooting 52% from the floor and 72.7% at the line. His lone double-double of the year was a far cry from the production that once made him one of the league’s most unique stars.

Just a few years ago, Simmons looked like the future of the NBA. Drafted first overall in 2016 by the Philadelphia 76ers, he quickly racked up accolades: three All-Star nods, two All-Defensive Team selections, and one All-NBA berth. His size, passing, and defense drew comparisons to Magic Johnson, and at 24, he seemed poised to dominate for a decade.

But the turning point came during the 2021 playoffs, when Simmons’ offensive hesitancy became the focus of criticism. Confidence issues, mental health struggles, and a lingering back injury followed, derailing his career trajectory. His trade demand in 2021 led to a blockbuster deal that sent him to Brooklyn in exchange for James Harden, but Simmons never recaptured his old form.

Ben Simmons.
Ben Simmons. Photo: Getty Images.

Now 29, Simmons owns career averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists across stints with the Sixers, Nets, and Clippers. Whether he suits up next season remains uncertain. His agent, Bernie Lee, has reportedly been in discussions with the Knicks, who remain intrigued by Simmons’ versatility despite his decline.

For New York, the offseason has already been dramatic. After falling to the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks made a shock move by parting ways with Tom Thibodeau. Former Kings coach Mike Brown has since taken the reins, looking to retool the roster for another deep playoff run.

Could a fresh start in the Garden revive Simmons’ career—or are we witnessing the final chapter of one of the NBA’s most puzzling stories?