Knicks Tabbed a 'Longshot' to Sign Controversial Ex-Star

While the Knicks do make some sense for point guard Ben Simmons, the Australian former No. 1 pick who was the Rookie of the Year and a three-time All-Star before his game fell apart after a controversial contract holdout and a back injury, around the league, there are doubts that he will land at Madison Square Garden.

Simmons could potentially be a boon to the bench as a versatile 6-foot-10 point guard who can play and guard four positions. But with Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele already joining New York's reserves, and with the front office eager to give young players like Tyler Kolek and Pacome Dadiet more of a chance to earn minutes, it's unclear how much of a role he would have in New York.

Worse, Simmons' experience with the Nets in Brooklyn, from 2022 until last season, has him reluctant to return to New York. So while there is some level of interest on both sides, there probably is not enough to warrant the pulling of a trigger.

"Of the places he could land, they'd be at the bottom of the list," one GM said. "They're the longshot. He does not want the scrutiny. And they want to have room to use the whole roster, that's one reason they got rid of (coach 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."