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| Former Clippers star Ben Simmons. Photo: Getty Images. |
NBA insider Eric Pincus (Bleacher Report) recently predicted that Simmons, a former No. 1 overall pick and three-time All-Star, might land in New York as the Knicks look to reshape their roster after falling short in the Eastern Conference Finals. While Sacramento was also mentioned as a possible landing spot, Pincus believes the Knicks are the more likely fit.
Simmons’ journey has been anything but smooth. Last season, he suited up in 33 games for the Brooklyn Nets before getting bought out, later joining the Los Angeles Clippers for 18 appearances. His numbers were modest—5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.6 assists per game—but he still flashed glimpses of his elite playmaking and defensive instincts.
Once regarded as one of the brightest young stars in the league, Simmons’ career took a sharp turn after the infamous 2021 playoffs collapse with Philadelphia. Since then, a mix of injuries, mental health struggles, and declining confidence in his offensive game have kept him from returning to All-Star form.
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| Ben Simmons. Photo: NBA.com. |
Still, at just 29 years old, the Australian guard-forward isn’t finished. His size, vision, and defensive versatility remain valuable tools—especially for a Knicks squad that could use a secondary playmaker and wing defender under new head coach Mike Brown.
New York is coming off a tough playoff exit, bowing out to the Indiana Pacers in six games. The front office responded with a bold move—parting ways with Tom Thibodeau and handing the reins to Brown. Adding Simmons on a low-risk, minimum deal could be a calculated gamble: if he stays healthy and regains even a fraction of his former confidence, the Knicks might unlock one of the best comeback stories in recent memory.
For context, Simmons has career averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists, and 1.5 steals, along with three All-Star nods and two All-Defensive selections during his early years with the Sixers. Those days feel distant, but the talent is undeniable.
The question now: can the Big Apple reignite Ben Simmons’ fire? Knicks fans may soon find out.