“If he would’ve went to another team… I fu—ng love Philly (Philadelphia 76ers) fans, but if you ain’t doing what you need to do for Philly, they gonna let your mg a– know in a heartbeat… ‘Hey, man, you stink. You’re a bum. Get in the house. Why are you having a drink with me?… if he would’ve went to a Charlotte to start without all of the harsh backlash that he got from fans and media and all that, he probably would’ve had a three,” Patrick Beverley said, via Pat Bev Pod.

During his tenure in Philadelphia, Ben delivered the best statistical performance of his career, marking the last team where he averaged double digits. However, it was also where persistent knee and back injuries began to hinder his progress. Moreover, fans frequently criticized his perceived lack of commitment, lending credence to Patrick’s claim that whether Simmons had joined a team with heightened pressure, he could have developed more his game-skills.

Warriors veteran Draymond Green reveals the moment he believes marked the start of Ben Simmons’ decline

In the 2020-21 season, the Philadelphia 76ers faced the Atlanta Hawks in a nail-biting seven-game series. Ben Simmons shined with his creativity, averaging 13 assists and leading his team in that category. Yet, Draymond Green spotlighted a crucial moment late in the fourth quarter. Instead of taking an open dunk, Simmons passed to Matisse Thybulle, who was fouled, a decision that fueled discussions and highlighted a key turning point in the series.

“That play in real time — everybody in the building was like, ‘What — what the f*** is going on?” And then I was just like, ‘Did that just happen? Like, did he just do that?’. That was the beginning of the end for him,” he said, via All The Smoke podcast.

After the Atlanta Hawks clinched the victory, Ben Simmons garnered attention for scoring just 5 points, raising questions about his scoring prowess. In the same podcast, Draymond Green noted Simmons’ reluctance to attempt free throws, suggesting a confidence issue that severely impacted his game. At 29, this has influenced Simmons’ current predicament, as he remains unsigned by any team.

According to longtime NBA reporter Marc Stein, the 29-year-old former No. 1 overall pick and three-time All-Star had the chance to join a contender but declined: “The Knicks, league sources said, indeed offered a one-year contract to Ben Simmons that the former All-Star passed on,” Stein reported.

“New York is limited to minimum contract offers as training camps draw near,” Stein added, “and Simmons entered the summer hopeful of securing a contract above the minimum after he split last season between the Nets and Clippers.”

Stein also reminded that the teams showing the strongest interest in Simmons are the Celtics and the Knicks. But for now, Simmons is taking the liberty of turning down those suitors, putting himself at risk of entering the new season as a free agent.

Questions continue to surround Simmons

The uncertainty only grows regarding Simmons’ future. Just last week, Stefan Bondy of the New York Post reported that Simmons was “questioning whether he even wants to continue playing in the NBA next season.” That raised the possibility that Simmons could truly consider walking away from basketball if no appealing offer comes his way.

Simmons wouldn’t be the first former max-contract star to resist the idea that, in the eyes of the NBA, he was no longer worth more than a minimum deal — especially while still shy of turning 30. Yet it’s been a long time since Simmons has delivered anything close to star-level impact on the court.

The decline of Simmons

Simmons is no longer a player teams are willing to pay heavily for. The former 76ers star hasn’t made an All-Star team, averaged more than seven points per game, played over 51 games, or attempted even six shots per game since 2021. On top of that, his struggles with injuries have only added to the concerns.

What once looked like a promising career now faces an uncertain future. Simmons remains in free agency, and unless something changes quickly, his path back to relevance in the NBA may continue to narrow.

“Simmons is in a numbers crunch. He is one of the nearly 75 players who finished the regular season on a roster but are still without a home for next season. The primary reason? It starts with the 41 players selected in the draft who signed first- and second-round contracts. Those players have replaced veterans, including Simmons, on rosters for next season,” Bobby Marks reported, via ESPN.

As one of the standout figures in the free agency market, fans eagerly anticipated that any team would have secured his services. Nonetheless, Ben is still a free agent and franchises like Golden State Warriors have reportedly completed their roster. While Bobby Marks mentioned that the Los Angeles Lakers have a roster spot available for him, they will not be able to make an official move until January 18, which complicates his arrival.

How has Ben Simmons really performed in the 2024-25 NBA season?

Following a serious back injury during the 2021-22 season, Ben Simmons experienced a significant decline in performance. Over three seasons with the Brooklyn Nets, he appeared in just 90 games, never surpassing 70 games in a single season. During this period, the 29-year-old star averaged 6.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game.

Hoping for a fresh start, he joined the Los Angeles Clippers midway through the 2024-25 season. Unfortunately, his struggles continued, culminating in the statistically worst season of his career. Over 18 games, Simmons averaged merely 2.9 points, along with 3.8 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. Consequently, the franchise opted not to retain him, choosing instead to invest in seasoned veterans like Chris Paul and Brook Lopez.

Although Ben Simmons’ performance has not met expectations, he continues to attract interest from several NBA franchises. According to insider Ian Begley, the New York Knicks are interested in his services but have set a specific condition. For this reason, the Phoenix Suns and Boston Celtics have also joined the conversation. However, none of the three franchises have made an official move, leaving his future somewhat uncertain.

The New York Knicks continue to show strong interest in Simmons, according to Ian Begley of SNY. “Ben Simmons is certainly a candidate for the Knicks’ final roster spot. As of earlier this week, New York continued to show strong interest in signing Simmons as teams in on Simmons await his decision,” Begley reported.

Simmons is expected to make a decision within days, with the Knicks and the Sacramento Kings emerging as the two most aggressive suitors, per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. Both teams are seeking to bolster their rotation ahead of the new NBA season, and Simmons’ versatility remains appealing despite recent setbacks.

The 6-foot-10 point forward appeared in 17 games for the Clippers last season after signing a minimum deal in February. He averaged 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in just over 16 minutes per game — a sharp drop from his career production but still enough to draw interest in a limited role.

However, reports suggest the Kings may be prioritizing their pursuit of Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga, which could leave Simmons out of their immediate plans. Golden State remain firm in their trade demands, complicating Sacramento’s path forward and possibly reopening the door for Simmons.

While Simmons’ production has declined in recent seasons due to injuries and limited playing time, his career averages of 13.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.2 assists still reflect his ability to impact a game. The Knicks, operating under the NBA’s second tax apron of $207.8 million, have limited financial flexibility but appear to be weighing Simmons as a strategic addition.

New York currently has all three of its two-way contract slots available, offering extra flexibility in finalizing its roster. Simmons has also drawn interest from the Phoenix Suns and Boston Celtics, though neither team is believed to be seriously in the running at this stage.

Adding Simmons to the Knicks’ roster could prove to be a key move, especially as they look to alleviate pressure on Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. Simmons could provide a secondary playmaking option and help create space for the team’s stars by drawing defensive attention.

According to BetUS, Simmons is currently favored to join the Boston Celtics—an unexpected development considering the Celtics’ roster turmoil and uncertain direction heading into the new season. Despite being one of the league’s most high-profile franchises, Boston’s offseason moves suggest a team in transition rather than one poised for contention.

The Celtics are navigating a tough situation after losing Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, while also dealing with a serious injury to star forward Jayson Tatum, who is reportedly in danger of missing the entire regular season. Adding a versatile playmaker like Simmons could be a calculated risk in hopes of staying competitive.

Simmons, once considered nearly unplayable due to injuries and inconsistency, has quietly become one of the most intriguing point guards on the free-agent market. While he’s still not performing at an All-Star level, his upside is appealing—especially for teams in need of a defensive-minded playmaker in the wake of Marcus Smart’s move to the Los Angeles Lakers.

NBA insider Jake L. Fischer, speaking on a Bleacher Report livestream, noted that Simmons’ situation may be indirectly impacting the market for other veteran guards. Among those reportedly in a holding pattern is Russell Westbrook, who remains unsigned despite reported interest from multiple teams.

To clarify, players like Westbrook aren’t necessarily waiting on Simmons themselves—but teams are hesitating to commit to other point guards while Simmons is still available. Front offices appear to be weighing their options carefully as they consider whether Simmons could offer more long-term value.

“I think Westbrook is another player who’s being held up by Ben Simmons,” Fischer said. “He’s had interest from the Sacramento Kings and the New York Knicks at different points, but Simmons is younger and theoretically still has more upside. Russ is a big personality, and I think he’s in the same holding pattern as Malcolm Brogdon—both are behind Simmons right now.”

As the offseason unfolds, Simmons’ next move could have ripple effects across several teams looking to solidify their backcourts. Whether it’s Boston, Sacramento, or another contender, whoever lands Simmons will be betting on his potential to return to form—and possibly reshape their NBA 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.

The arrival of Paul to the Clippers signals a revamped roster featuring stalwarts such as James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. The addition of Beal further indicates the Clippers’ decision to move on from Simmons, with reports suggesting the 2017-18 Rookie of the Year is likely to join another team.

Amidst speculation about Simmons’ future with the Clippers, it appears he is contemplating a shift to a new franchise to continue his NBA journey. With the current landscape, Simmons has a myriad of options to ponder as he charts his career path for the upcoming season.

What’s next for Simmons after Paul and Beal signed with the Clippers?

With Paul and Beal sealing contracts with the Clippers, Ben Simmons finds himself contemplating new opportunities for the upcoming season. As his chapter with the Clippers appears to be closing, Simmons, now a free agent, is reportedly exploring options with other franchises. Sources have circulated rumors of potential suitors showing interest in the versatile player.

Simmons has attracted attention from several teams, according to The Stein Line. “League sources indicate that the Phoenix Suns have engaged in recent discussions with former All-Star Ben Simmons. I’m told interest has also emerged from Boston, New York, and Sacramento since free agency opened,“ said a report.

With interest from as many as four teams, Simmons has the luxury of evaluating his next move carefully. His talent remains indisputable, and he has the potential to become a valuable asset to several NBA teams.

Simmons’ stats with the Clippers last season

During his stint with the Clippers, Simmons donned the jersey in just 18 games, leaving a modest statistical impact in the final stretch of the regular season. Averaging 16.4 minutes per game, he recorded 3.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and maintained an 85% free throw accuracy. Simmons made a concerted effort to secure his place in the Clippers’ roster for the following season.

However, his contributions during the playoffs were limited. Participating in all five of the Clippers’ initial postseason matchups, Simmons averaged only 0.8 points per game in 8.4 minutes on the floor. He also contributed 1.4 rebounds and 0.8 assists per game during this critical juncture.

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Sacramento Kings have emerged as a possible landing spot for Simmons. Speaking on Bleacher Report’s Latest NBA Offseason Rumors | Insider Notebook livestream, Fischer shared that the Kings, along with the New York Knicks, are still in the mix for the 28-year-old guard.

“For Ben Simmons, the two teams we’re hearing still in the mix are Sacramento and New York,” Fischer said. “We are still anticipating the Kings bringing in another veteran guard, and Ben Simmons is on that list of potential targets — alongside Russell Westbrook and Malcolm Brogdon. I think he’d make an interesting addition there.”

Simmons split the 2024–25 NBA season between the Brooklyn Nets and the Clippers after a midseason trade. He appeared in 51 games, averaging 5.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in 22 minutes per game, while shooting 52% from the field. Though his numbers were modest, teams appear intrigued by the potential value he can still bring as a playmaker and defender.

A move to Sacramento could make the Kings one of the most intriguing teams in the league — especially if they also land Westbrook. Pairing Simmons and Westbrook with Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan would give the Kings a unique mix of veteran experience, physicality, and basketball IQ, all within a team that already has playoff aspirations.

The Kings have been aggressive in addressing their backcourt this offseason. They previously signed Dennis Schroder in free agency and continue to explore additional options to strengthen their guard depth and add flexibility to Mike Brown’s lineup configurations.

As for the Knicks, their ongoing interest in Simmons signals a continued desire to reinforce their roster with versatile pieces. While Simmons remains unsigned, his name is likely to remain active in rumors until a deal is finalized. Teams in need of defensive versatility and veteran leadership could see him as a worthwhile addition heading into training camp.

During a Bleacher Report livestream, NBA insider Jake Fischer discussed the situation. “We are still anticipating the Kings to be bringing in another veteran guard and Ben Simmons is on that list of potential targets,” the reporter stated.

Sacramento has spent several weeks looking to strengthen its playmaking depth. That effort has already led to the signing of Dennis Schroder, who joined as a free agent after his stint with the Detroit Pistons. The team also added Isaiah Stevens on a two-way contract.

Simmons spent the final stretch of the 2024–25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers after being traded from the Brooklyn Nets. Under head coach Tyronn Lue, the 28-year-old guard appeared in 17 games, all off the bench, averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists. His role remained limited during the playoffs, where he played in five games and had minimal impact.

Other options on Sacramento’s radar

Ben Simmons isn’t the only candidate being considered by the Kings for the backup point guard role. Russell Westbrook was reportedly on their radar even before Schroder’s signing and remains in the mix. According to Jake Fischer, Malcolm Brogdon is also a potential target.

In the 2024–25 season, the Kings were one of the NBA’s oldest teams by average age—27.7 years—trailing only the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, and Phoenix Suns.

And while the franchise moved on from several veteran players this offseason, including Jonas Valanciunas, Trey Lyles, and Jae Crowder, it’s clear Sacramento is now targeting players with not just proven NBA talent but also significant experience.

Simmons’ options

In addition to the reported interest from the Kings, the 2016 first overall pick apparently has another potential suitor. “For Ben Simmons the two teams we’re hearing for him still in the mix are Sacramento and New York,” Jake Fischer said.

The Knicks have also been mentioned this offseason as a team looking to add an experienced point guard. They’ve previously been linked to Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul, though those possibilities were downplayed by Hoops Wire reporter Sam Amico.

According to SNY’s Ian Begley, the New York Knicks are one of the teams in touch with Simmons during the ongoing free agency period. “Also, the Knicks have enough money for one veteran minimum contract and one rookie contract before they reach the second apron. Who might the Knicks sign with that veteran’s minimum deal? They have continued to touch base with Ben Simmons during the free agency period,” Begley reported.

Simmons, selected first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2016 NBA Draft, once looked destined to be the face of the league. But a combination of injuries, off-court challenges, and inconsistency have slowed his rise. Still, the 28-year-old remains an intriguing reclamation project.

Last season, Simmons appeared in 51 total games with the Nets and Clippers, making 24 starts. He averaged 5.0 points on 52.0% shooting, along with 5.6 assists and 4.7 rebounds in 22.0 minutes per game. While no longer the All-NBA talent he once was, Simmons could still provide valuable depth to a Knicks squad that already added Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele.

But Simmons isn’t the only veteran New York has its eye on. Begley noted the Knicks have also expressed interest in marquee free agents Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul. “I’m sure they have touched base with other vets as well. Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook are among the lead guards still on the market,” Begley wrote.

Additionally, the Knicks are reportedly monitoring the situation surrounding former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart, who may be a buyout candidate with the Washington Wizards. “Teams are wondering if Washington will agree to a buyout with veteran guard Marcus Smart,” Begley added.

New York, however, isn’t limiting its search to ball-handling guards. One familiar face could be making a return. “New York still sees Landry Shamet as a possibility and Shamet remains open to returning to New York,” Begley reported.

Shamet played 50 games with the Knicks last season, averaging 5.7 points per game on 46.1% shooting from the field and an impressive 39.7% from beyond the arc, in just over 15 minutes per contest. In the playoffs, he saw limited action but made the most of it, averaging 2.4 points in 7.5 minutes per game while shooting 46.7% from deep.

Ben Simmons‘ career has not gone as originally planned. Poised to be one of the faces of the NBA, he has now wandered through teams and is entering free agency once again. He played for the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers last season but failed to earn a spot on either roster for next season.

Last year, he played 33 games for Brooklyn, and started 24 playing 25 minutes a night. It all seemed great and he then went to the Clippers. The Australian played 18 games for the Clippers but his numbers didn’t wow. His full season stats were 5 points a night, 5.6 assists and 4.7 rebounds. Now, a recent Instagram story of his showed he is spending time in Miami. The timing is suspicious to say the least, as the Heat would welcome a player like Simmons given the team’s state.

Simmons was never the most prolific scorer but his ability to average 15-8-8 made him an all-around menace. However, between injuries and off-field shenanigans, including a 2021-22 holdout and back injury, his career started to fall off. He hasn’t been an All-Star since 2020-21. The decline has been steep, as all his averages have gone down bad.

Simmons flaws are too well-known

Simmons always had a complete-yet-incomplete game. That sounds contradictory, but it is true. While early Simmons could score in the paint, assist, rebound and defend at a very high level, his shooting, free throws, and decision-making were not as polished.

The thing is Simmons never really improved those weaknesses. It was so obvious, that the teams stopped marking him on the 3-pt line, they’d rather mark everyone else. Teams would make him hesitate and he would even miss wide open shots or pass on easy layups to try to avoid missing. This started to take a toll and then injuries happened. His career was certainly derailed.

Simmons can still add value even if not a star

If last season is what you’re going to get from him, there is something to value. Especially when looking at what he did for the Nets, he still could distribute the ball correctly. On the Nets alone, he averaged 6.9 assists per night. His court vision and ability to pass the ball is still there.

Even if it’s not Miami, any team would have a good rotational player that can defend multiple positions. Simmons won’t be that All-Star player he once was, but he can still be a good player for 10-15 minutes a night.