The New York Knicks are reportedly showing significant interest in signing Ben Simmons, who remains a key target for their final roster spot as the NBA free agency period progresses.
According to veteran NBA reporter Ian Begley of SNY, Simmons is strongly being considered by the Knicks, with the team actively awaiting his decision amidst interest from several other franchises across the league.
Last season, split between the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers, Simmons participated in 51 games, averaging 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists. His shooting efficiency included 52.0% from the field and 72.7% from the free-throw line.
A former first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft out of LSU, the 29-year-old Melbourne native commenced his professional journey with the Philadelphia 76ers. Throughout his career with the 76ers, Nets, and Clippers, he holds impressive averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists.
Simmons’ career has seen significant challenges, notably missing the entire 2021-22 season due to mental health and back issues. This period also included his highly publicized trade request from the 76ers, culminating in a blockbuster move to the Brooklyn Nets.
The potential acquisition of Simmons comes as the New York Knicks are in a period of transition, fresh off a successful run to the conference finals last season—their deepest playoff push since 2000, ultimately falling to the Indiana Pacers in six games.
This offseason also saw a surprising coaching change for the Knicks, with Tom Thibodeau, who led the team to a 2021 Coach of the Year award and a commendable 226-174 regular season record, being replaced by veteran coach Mike Brown. Brown brings a 454-304 regular season and 50-40 playoff record from his stints with the Cavaliers, Lakers, and Kings.
The pursuit of a player like Ben Simmons signifies the Knicks’ intent to bolster their roster and capitalize on their recent playoff success, strategically looking for versatile talent to fill their final roster spot as they aim for sustained competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.
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