Ben Simmons’ pending free agency move is causing a significant holdup in the market for veteran point guard Russell Westbrook, according to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer.
During a live stream on Thursday, Fischer reported that Simmons is currently the “most consequential free agent on the board” and has become a pivotal domino in determining the next wave of offseason movement. Simmons, 28, is expected to decide soon, with the New York Knicks and Sacramento Kings leading the chase.
“The domino that a lot of agents and teams are waiting on for this next evolution of the offseason market here is Ben Simmons,” Fischer said.
Simmons’ situation is being closely watched by multiple front offices. According to Fischer, Sacramento and New York remain the most active suitors, while Boston and Phoenix have also shown interest. However, Fischer suggested the Suns may be out of the running after adding Jordan Goodwin off waivers.
Meanwhile, Sacramento’s interest in Westbrook remains real, but there are complications. Sam Amick of The Athletic recently told Sactown Sports 1140 that although the Kings’ front office, led by GM Scott Perry, values Westbrook, the crowded backcourt is creating hesitation.
Despite De’Aaron Fox’s trade to San Antonio in February, Sacramento has already added Dennis Schroder and explored options like Tyus Jones before he joined Orlando. The team now faces a roster squeeze that may limit Westbrook’s role.
Fischer indicated that Westbrook, along with Malcolm Brogdon and De’Anthony Melton, is “in the holding pattern” behind Simmons, whose versatile skill set and defensive upside still intrigue multiple teams.
Westbrook, 35, averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds over 75 games last season with the Denver Nuggets. Though he contributed 11.7 points per game off the bench during the playoffs, interest in him has cooled while executives await clarity on Simmons’ landing spot.
Fischer emphasized that Simmons is still viewed as a swing piece because of his playmaking ability and potential to contribute as a ball-handling defender. With teams like Sacramento and New York searching for a secondary playmaker, Simmons’ lower financial cost and theoretical upside make him more appealing than older veterans like Westbrook.
Until Simmons signs, teams may avoid committing to other backcourt options, particularly those who may require more defined roles or greater usage.
The Knicks and Kings are reportedly pushing to finalize deals with Simmons soon. Once his situation is resolved, the market for guards like Westbrook and Brogdon is expected to move quickly.
