Knicks Express Interest in Ben Simmons Amid Career Doubts

As the clock ticks down to the 2025-26 NBA season, the spotlight is again on Ben Simmons, a player whose career has seen its fair share of highs and lows. The former No. 1 overall draft pick is reportedly weighing his future in professional basketball, with sources indicating that the New York Knicks are among the teams showing interest in acquiring the three-time All-Star, as reported by CBS Sports.

At 29, Simmons has become one of the most intriguing free agents on the market. His career trajectory since being selected first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2016 NBA Draft has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride. He burst onto the scene by winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award and earning All-Star selections from 2019 to 2021, alongside two All-Defensive First Team honors. However, injuries and a contentious departure from Philadelphia have significantly impacted his playing time and performance.

In recent years, Simmons has managed to play in only 108 games across four seasons, primarily due to ongoing injury issues. His last stint, which involved playing for both the Brooklyn Nets and the Los Angeles Clippers, saw him participating in 51 games. During that time, he averaged 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds in about 22 minutes per game—a far cry from his peak performance levels.

Following his buyout from Brooklyn in February, Simmons joined the Clippers for the remainder of the season, where he appeared in 18 games. However, his contributions were modest, raising questions about his readiness and commitment to the game moving forward.

The Knicks’ interest in Simmons comes at a time when the franchise is looking to bolster its roster for a deeper playoff run. The potential addition of a player with Simmons’ skill set could be a game-changer, provided he can regain his form and stay injury-free. The Knicks are known for their strong fanbase and competitive aspirations, making the prospect of Simmons in a New York jersey both thrilling and daunting.

With the start of the season just around the corner, Simmons faces a crucial decision. Sources indicate that he is contemplating whether he wants to continue his career in the NBA, a reflection of the mental and physical toll that recent years have taken on him. The league is watching closely, as his choice could have significant implications for both his career and the teams interested in his services.

As Simmons navigates this pivotal juncture, the basketball community will be eager to see how the situation unfolds. Will he embrace a new opportunity with the Knicks, or will he step away from the game? His next move could redefine his legacy in the sport.