The New York Knicks have been linked with a move for Ben Simmons in recent weeks. The former first-overall draft pick is currently an unrestricted free agent.
The Knicks could lean on Simmons for his defensive upside and playmaking skills. However, his lack of a scoring threat would be a significant obstacle for the franchise to try and overcome.
During an August 20 edition of SNY’s “The Putback” with Ian Begley, the Knicks insider shared his doubts that Simmons lands with the Knicks this summer.
âLogic tells me to take the field because there are so many different variables here for the Knicks,â Begley said. âThey have interest, other teams have interest, and they have one spot unless they make a trade to open up another. So it seems to me you are looking at Landry Shamet or a Ben Simmons-type player. That is why I would probably take the field. Are the Knicks the favorite? I do not think so.â
Simmons was once viewed as a superstar of the future. His ability to get wherever he wanted on the court, and to create scoring opportunities on the fly, made him an elite-level prospect. The fact that he was also a lockdown defender was an added bonus.
However, in recent years, Simmons has struggled with back injuries that appear to have sapped a large portion of his upside. And, given the pace at which Mike Brown will likely task the team with playing, they may be better served adding a sharpshooter with the final roster spot.
Simmons Struggled Last Season
Last season, Simmons split his time between the Brooklyn Nets and LA Clippers. In total, he suited up for 51 games, averaging 5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists. He shot 52% from the field throughout the year, taking just 4.4 shot attempts per game.
Simmons would undoubtedly earn minutes with any team, primarily as part of their second unit. Despite his struggles, he has great size, incredible processing speed, and can still pressure the rim when getting downhill. The problem is, his unwillingness to shoot the ball or even attack with purpose makes his presence problematic for an offense.
With the Knicks focused on winning a championship next season, they must avoid all potential distractions. And for that reason, Simmons’ addition is unlikely.
Westbrook Could Be Good Alternative For Knicks
If New York did want to add some veteran depth at the guard position, Russell Westbrook would likely be a better choice. Like Simmons, Westbrook isn’t going to space the floor. However, he plays with an aggression that allows him to create havoc on the drive.
Furthermore, Westbrook is coming off a successful season with the Denver Nuggets. The former NBA MVP suited up for 75 games last season. He averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists. And, just like Simmons, Westbrook is currently an unrestricted free agent.
Westbrook would check most of the boxes that Simmons would; however, he is more reliable in terms of availability, and would unlock some of New York’s perimeter game due to his drive-and-dish playmaking style.
On paper, Westbrook would be a far stronger addition to New York’s rotation. And, the fact that Westbrook is yet to win a championship could create a fun side-narrative to follow throughout the campaign. If Brown wants a veteran guard, the Knicks clearly have options.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Insider Casts Doubt Over Ben Simmons Landing With Knicks appeared first on Heavy Sports.