One of the biggest question marks of this NBA offseason surrounds the future of Ben Simmons. The 28-year-old free agent is coming off a short stint with the Los Angeles Clippers and is not expected to return, especially after the team’s latest roster moves. However, Simmons may already be narrowing down his next move — and a destination in the Eastern Conference was reportedly on the table for the upcoming season.
Simmons’ prior experience with the Brooklyn Nets, spanning from 2022 through last season, appears to have left him hesitant about a return to New York. Despite mutual interest between Simmons and some teams in the market, league executives suggest the chances of a reunion with a New York-based team remain slim.
“Of the places he could land, they’d be at the bottom of the list,” one general manager told Athlon. “They’re the long shot. He does not want the scrutiny. And they want to have room to use the whole roster — that’s one reason they moved on from Tom Thibodeau. If you’re bringing in a veteran who is hurt half the season, it’s going to prevent you from seeing what you’ve got with your young guys.”
Simmons linked to four teams
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Simmons is likely to make a decision within the next week. “I’m told he’s probably going to make a choice in the next week. Kings, Suns, Knicks, and Celtics have all been connected to him,” Windhorst reported.
The mention of the Knicks is particularly notable, even if the fit is questionable. Simmons brings an elite pedigree — a former No. 1 overall pick, Rookie of the Year, and three-time All-Star — and his defensive versatility and 6-foot-10 frame could, in theory, make him an asset in a modern NBA rotation. Still, skepticism remains about his potential impact at Madison Square Garden.
Simmons could potentially fill a role off the bench as a playmaking forward who can defend four positions. But with Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele already added to New York’s second unit, and the front office prioritizing development minutes for prospects like Tyler Kolek and Pacome Dadiet, Simmons’ path to a meaningful role appears uncertain.
The injury history remains a major red flag. Simmons has appeared in just 108 games over the last three seasons due to various setbacks, including recurring back issues. Last NBA season with the Clippers, he averaged just 2.9 points across 18 games — numbers that raise serious concerns among interested teams.
Ultimately, while Simmons is still just 28 and possesses elite court vision and defensive instincts, his value in free agency hinges on health and fit. Teams across both conferences continue to monitor the situation, but his next stop could be his final shot at proving he still belongs in the league.