The New York Knicks are reportedly showing significant interest in acquiring former top draft selection Ben Simmons, a move that could mark a pivotal moment for both the struggling guard and the playoff-contending franchise.
Simmons, once heralded as a generational talent, has seen a sharp decline in his performance over the past half-decade, largely due to persistent injury woes and a noticeable dip in confidence.
His tenures with both the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers in recent seasons have been largely unimpressive, failing to recapture the form that once made him a three-time All-Star.
Meanwhile, the Knicks, after a deep playoff run that ended in the Eastern Conference Finals last season, identified a critical need for enhanced bench depth and versatile playmaking to support their core.
According to veteran NBA insider Ian Begley, who addressed the situation in an SNY mailbag, the Knicks have maintained “strong interest” in signing Simmons to potentially fill their final roster spot.
Despite his recent struggles and diminished output, the allure for New York lies in the prospect of a low-risk, high-reward scenario, capitalizing on Simmons’ once-elite skillset for a potentially minimal investment.
During the 2024-25 season, Simmons averaged modest numbers of 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds between his time with the Nets and Clippers, indicative of his current diminished offensive impact.
His impressive physical attributes, including height and build, still allow him to contribute in rebounds and assists, yet his shooting and overall offensive aggression remain significantly hampered by a clear lack of confidence.
For the Knicks, bringing in Ben Simmons would represent another calculated gamble on a player who has faced immense scrutiny and significant setbacks since his notorious flameout during the 2021 postseason, potentially offering a crucial boost if he can rediscover any semblance of his former self.
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