Former NBA #1 Draft Pick in New York Knicks’ Sights!
Apr 21, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) controls the ball under pressure from Los Angeles Clippers guard Ben Simmons (25) in the first quarter during game two of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Free agent after his mixed stint between Brooklyn and the Clippers, Ben Simmons could bounce back with New York. According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Knicks are in regular contact with the former Australian All-Star as part of their search for a final roster addition.
« Knicks remain interested in Landry Shamet & he remains open to coming back… Also to my knowledge as of late last week they were still in touch w/ Ben Simmons… I’m sure they’re looking at others as well… »
— @IanBegley on Knicks vet minimum slot
Reaction by @_leeescobedo pic.twitter.com/X83tWocp59
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) July 15, 2025
Knicks Looking for Backup Behind Jalen Brunson
After one of their best seasons in over 20 years, the New York Knicks chose to change coaches and improve their bench by adding Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele. They now have room to add one veteran minimum contract and one rookie contract to avoid the « second apron, » the threshold that triggers financial penalties.
The franchise is primarily looking for a backup behind Jalen Brunson who can handle the ball. Ben Simmons is among the names mentioned, along with Landry Shamet, who was already with the team last season. As Ian Begley explains: « For what it’s worth, the Knicks don’t seem to be exclusively focused on ball-handling guards for this last spot. New York still considers Landry Shamet as a possibility and Shamet remains open to returning to New York. »
A Risky but Potentially Rewarding Gamble
Ben Simmons remains a player with recognized abilities as a playmaker and defender, but his offensive struggles persist. The 28-year-old Australian averaged only 5 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds in 22 minutes last season, split between Brooklyn and the Clippers.
Gone are the days when Ben Simmons was among All-Stars and All-NBA Teams. Since 2021 and his end with the Sixers, the former first overall pick is just a shadow of his former self. Despite his offseason three-point training videos, his scoring impact remains a real problem for his market value.
For the Knicks, this would be a low financial risk gamble that could pay off if Simmons regains even a portion of his former level. Barring a trade, New York must make a choice to complete its roster before the season starts.
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