Former All-Star could be Knicks' saving grace after Malcom Brogdon's retirement

On Wednesday, Malcolm Brogdon shocked the NBA by announcing his retirement from the NBA. He had been training with the New York Knicks and was expected to secure a roster spot ahead of the new season.

Mike Brown's team is now without a veteran backup ball-handler. And while Pacome Dadiet is expected to stick around following Brogdon's decision, he isn't the sort of "ready-now" talent New York needs to compete at the highest level.

Therefore, it's fair to assume that New York won't stop searching for another veteran guard over the coming months. Unfortunately for the Knicks, Russell Westbrook came off the board on Wednesday, inking a deal with the Sacramento Kings. His style of play could have worked well in Brown's up-tempo offense.

Who can the Knicks add to their roster after Malcolm Brogdon's retirement?

So, with Brogdon out of the league and Westbrook over in the Western Conference, the most logical choice for New York could be to re-enter talks with Ben Simmons. The former first overall pick has been a free agent since his deal with the LA Clippers expired at the end of last season.

During the offseason, the Knicks were linked to Simmons. However, it has since been reported that the playmaking guard declined the team's offer to sign. Perhaps now, with the new season just a week away, Simmons would be more receptive to moving to New York. After all, he would be signing with a contending team and would have a shot at winning his first championship ring. 

Simmons won't get many opportunities as good as what the Knicks will be offering. He will be a second-unit guard and tasked with pushing the pace and finding passing windows to get scoring threats the ball. Even now, with Simmons a shadow of his former self, that role should be ideal for him. 

Of course, Simmons may want to avoid the pressure cooker that is New York basketball. The intense media coverage and expectations could be off-putting for him. Still, he is likely the Knicks' best chance at landing a veteran ball-handler without entering the trade market. If the front office is smart, they will embark on a full charm offensive. 

And if that doesn't work, then maybe staying patient until the trade deadline will be the best option.