The New York Knicks may be just a few minor moves away. With the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers likely both taking a year off from contention, the Eastern Conference is all of a sudden theirs to lose. Between the Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers, we will likely see a new Eastern Conference champion next season.
The Knicks' free agency moves haven’t been all that splashy. They added Jordan Clarkson, which should help their bench. They also fired coach Tom Thibodeau in hopes of shaking things up.
However, the Knicks still have some moves to make. One NBA analyst recently reported on a Knicks free agency rumor that could further bolster their improving bench. Jake Weinbach reported that a Knicks-Ben Simmons signing could be a realistic option.
“Ben Simmons is reportedly a strong candidate for the Knicks’ final veteran minimum contract slot. Simmons can provide value in New York as a secondary ball-handler and versatile defender. The former top overall pick would be a solid depth piece for the Knicks at the very least…Simmons still has his flaws offensively, but I think the Knicks would actually value his playmaking ability and defensive skill set.”
While Simmons isn’t the All-NBA or All-Defensive player he used to be, he could still help the Knicks. The Knicks' second unit (especially now with Clarkson leading the way) could use Simmons’ defense.
Simmons can also be added to lineups with OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges for extreme length and defensive tenacity.
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The Knicks-Ben Simmons signing might not be the sexiest free agent addition. Still, it could be a solid move that brings the Knicks just slightly closer to an NBA championship.
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