NEW YORK, NY — The Knicks enter camp with roster questions. A reserve guard remains a priority. That search has drawn Ben Simmons into focus.
Knicks Set To Resolve Guard Question As Ben Simmons Confusion Lingers
Reports conflict. Marc Stein wrote Simmons turned down a one-year Knicks deal. Ian Begley of SNY refuted it, saying no formal offer was ever made. Both cited conversations with Simmons’ camp, though his former agent no longer represents him. The truth sits somewhere in the middle.
Knicks have had dialogue with free agent Ben Simmons over the course of the offseason and certainly have had interest in him, but club has never made a formal offer to Simmons, per league sources. Landry Shamet, Malcolm Brogdon among those on NYK radar for its lone roster spot
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) September 8, 2025
The Ben Simmons to Knicks chatter won’t stop. Even if no deal exists, his name circles the back end of the roster puzzle.
A Crowded Market
Simmons averaged five points, nearly five rebounds, and over five assists last season across stints with Brooklyn and the Clippers. Injuries and inconsistency clouded his play. Free agency hasn’t helped. At one point, Simmons even considered stepping away from the game entirely.
For New York, the fit is complicated. They can only offer the veteran minimum. That limits options and leverage. Malcolm Brogdon and Landry Shamet are also linked. Shamet already knows Tom Thibodeau’s system after last season. Brogdon brings steadiness. Simmons, at his best, brings size and playmaking that no other option provides.
The Ben Simmons to Knicks rumors reflect a reality. Their guard room needs another layer. Yet the team hesitates to gamble on Simmons’ fragility and uncertainty.
What’s Next
New York has one open spot. They must decide whether to invest in reliability or upside. Simmons was once a three-time All-Star. But his career trajectory raises questions.
Begley made clear: no paperwork ever crossed the table. Still, informal discussions could have sketched out expectations. Miscommunication is common in late-summer free agency.
This conversation underscores a larger theme. This front office wants depth but values dependability. Signing Simmons, or anyone else, will reveal which priority wins.
Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
