Former NBA All-Star Eddie Johnson issued a strong warning to Ben Simmons as the free agent weighs interest from the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics.
Speaking on SiriusXM NBA Radio, Johnson praised Simmons’ basketball IQ but cautioned him against joining two of the league’s most demanding markets.
“He’s one of the smartest players in the league with the ball in his hands,” Johnson said, before adding, “I think he’s crazy if he [goes to] Boston or New York.”
Simmons, 28, is reportedly nearing a decision, with the Knicks and Sacramento Kings emerging as serious contenders.
The 6-foot-10 forward last played for the Clippers, where he appeared in 17 games on a minimum contract and averaged 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes.
Despite limited production due to back issues and changing roles, Simmons still draws interest because of his elite passing and defensive upside.
But Johnson believes Simmons’ reputation—and confidence—would take a bigger hit in Boston or New York if he fails to meet fan expectations.
“He’s got to get to where he gets confidence,” Johnson said. “Them fans in Boston… they want to win. They don’t want to lose.”
The Celtics, who lost Jayson Tatum to a season-ending Achilles injury during the second round of the playoffs, are facing a pivotal offseason themselves.
Johnson suggested that if Simmons landed in Boston and with Tatum missing time next season, the scrutiny would intensify.
In New York, the Knicks are deciding between Simmons and sharpshooter Landry Shamet to fill their final standard roster spot, according to SNY’s Ian Begley.
Shamet, who played 50 games for New York this past season, averaged 5.7 points while shooting 39.7% from deep.
The Knicks reportedly value his ability to space the floor as a low-usage bench scorer.
