The New York Knicks have one roster spot left to complete what has already been a busy offseason, and at least one NBA salary cap expert believes former No. 1 pick Ben Simmons should fill it.
Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus suggested that Simmons could address one of New York’s biggest needs: playmaking.
“One of the Knicks’ most significant weaknesses last season was a lack of playmaking on the roster,” Pincus wrote. “Outside of star guard Jalen Brunson’s 7.3 assists per game, the only high-assist teammate he had was Josh Hart at 5.9. Recently signed guard Jordan Clarkson is a bench scorer first and foremost, not a shot creator for others.
“Simmons could relieve some of that pressure, with the size to play alongside Brunson or entirely with the second unit to help generate offense.”
The 6-foot-10 Simmons is also a two-time All-Defensive First Team selection, a factor Pincus noted could boost New York’s defense.
“Before acquiring Karl-Anthony Towns, the Knicks were primarily known as a grind-it-out defensive unit,” Pincus said. “That shifted to more of an offense-first squad, but the team still has plenty of strong wing defenders like Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby. Simmons adds to that group while also addressing a need on offense.”
Knicks’ Long-Standing Interest in Ben Simmons
GettyKnicks target Ben Simmons
Simmons has been on the Knicks’ radar since early in free agency. SNY’s Ian Begley reported in July that New York had shown strong interest. Simmons has also met with the Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings and Boston Celtics, per NBA insider Marc Stein, though Boston pivoted to sign former Toronto big man Chris Boucher.
The 29-year-old’s career has taken a steep downturn since leaving Philadelphia. Once an All-Star centerpiece with the 76ers, Simmons’ trajectory unraveled amid mental health struggles and persistent back issues. After a turbulent stint in Brooklyn, he signed a minimum deal with the Los Angeles Clippers following a buyout with the Nets.
Last season, Simmons averaged 6.2 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists in 33 games with Brooklyn before being traded. In 17 games with the Clippers, his production fell to career lows: 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists.
Still, Simmons’ age and pedigree have kept him on teams’ radars. A fresh start, particularly in a demanding market like New York, could offer him both redemption and opportunity.
The Knicks have gambled on reclamation projects before, though their most recent attempt with Kemba Walker fell flat.
Reporters Divided on Knicks’ Odds
ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel predicted Simmons would end up in New York.
“Maybe another team could swoop in and convince Simmons to sign with them, but these are the two most discussed avenues among league circles for the former first overall pick,” Siegel wrote. “My guess: Simmons ends up in New York.”
Begley, however, cast doubt on the Knicks’ chances. “Logic tells me to take the field because there are so many different variables here for the Knicks,” he said on SNY’s “The Putback” on Aug. 20. “They have interest, other teams have interest, and they have one spot unless they make a trade to open up another. … Are the Knicks the favorite? I do not think so.”
Pincus identified Sacramento as the biggest competition, noting the Kings have room under the luxury tax to offer slightly more than the $3.3 million veteran minimum.
For now, the Knicks remain patient as they weigh their final move — and whether Simmons represents more risk than reward.
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