The New York Knicks are nearing a decision on how to fill their final standard roster spot, with free agents Ben Simmons and Landry Shamet emerging as the top two candidates.
According to Ian Begley of SNY, the Knicks have maintained interest in both players and continue to evaluate which would better complement the current roster.
Simmons, 28, is expected to make his free agency decision within days. He has drawn the most interest from New York and the Sacramento Kings, per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst.
The 6-foot-10 forward last played for the Los Angeles Clippers after signing a minimum deal in February. In 17 appearances, he averaged 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists over 16.4 minutes per game.
Despite diminished recent production due to injuries and role limitations, Simmons’ career numbers—13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 7.2 assists—still reflect significant upside for a team looking to boost its defensive depth and playmaking.
Shamet, 28, spent the 2024–25 season with New York after being acquired from Washington. He averaged 5.7 points in 15.2 minutes across 50 games, shooting 39.7% from three-point range.
The Knicks value his floor spacing and ability to contribute as a low-usage bench scorer. In 398 career games, Shamet holds averages of 8.3 points and 38.5% from beyond the arc.
Begley also noted that New York is still operating below the $207.8 million second apron, allowing them the room to sign a rookie free agent—possibly Kansas guard Kevin McCullar—and one veteran to a minimum contract.
However, they would need to make a trade to add a third standard contract to the roster. All three of the team’s two-way contract slots remain vacant as well.
Begley said the Knicks will not be able to trade Mikal Bridges for the next six months after he agreed to an extension. That decision solidifies the roster core and leaves minimal flexibility to make additional moves without careful financial planning.
