Ben Simmons’ NBA future remains uncertain, but two Eastern Conference contenders have shown the most persistence in monitoring his situation.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported on his Substack that the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks expressed the most serious interest in the former All-Star this summer. According to Stein, New York even offered Simmons a one-year minimum contract, but he declined.
The Knicks, limited to minimum offers at this stage of the offseason, have evaluated Simmons as a defensive-minded backup guard and secondary playmaker. They are also weighing Landry Shamet for the same roster spot, a shooter who would bring a different skill set.
Boston’s level of involvement has not been detailed, but their interest underscores that Simmons still has admirers around the league despite his decline in production.
Simmons, 29, entered the summer seeking a deal above the veteran’s minimum after splitting last season between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers. In 50 appearances, he averaged 5.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.6 assists.
His postseason minutes were limited with the Clippers, as he logged just eight per game in their short playoff run.
Once one of the league’s brightest young stars, Simmons was the No. 1 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. He won Rookie of the Year in 2018, made three straight All-Star appearances, and earned two All-Defensive First Team selections with the Philadelphia 76ers.
However, injuries and offensive limitations have led to a steep decline. His career averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists across 383 games reflect the talent that made him a franchise cornerstone during his peak years.
The uncertainty surrounding Simmons deepened after his longtime agent, Bernie Lee, stepped away and informed the NBPA that he is no longer representing the player.
Reports from the New York Post’s Stefan Bondy noted earlier this week that Simmons has sent mixed signals about whether he intends to continue his career. Sources indicated he is still weighing if he wants to endure the demands of another NBA season after earning more than $200 million in salary to date.
