The New York Knicks are still weighing their options for their final roster spot this offseason as they look to round out their championship-caliber team with a veteran-minimum contract.
The Knicks have been connected to several cost-effective players, including Malik Beasley, Landry Shamet, Seth Curry and Malcolm Brogdon. However, New York could take a flier on former No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons, whose defensive versatility and rebounding could make for an intriguing fit off the bench.
While Simmons is no longer the scoring threat he once was with the Philadelphia 76ers, he could still provide useful minutes for a contending Knicks squad.
NBA writer questions Ben Simmons’ fit with Knicks
Simmons has been linked to the Knicks throughout the offseason, though James L. Edwards III of The Athletic believes his offensive shortcomings could lead the Knicks to explore other options.
“The No. 1 pick in the 2016 draft would add some much-needed size to the Knicks’ backcourt and give the roster another good defender,” he wrote. “But his disdain for scoring (or even looking at the rim) doesn't make sense to me on a roster that will rightfully feature heavy minutes from Mitchell Robinson and Josh Hart, both of whom aren't floor spacers.”
MORE: Malik Beasley has 'entered the conversation' for Knicks' final roster spot
The Knicks already have capable bench scorers such as Jordan Clarkson and Miles McBride in the backcourt, but there is certainly risk in adding Simmons. His lack of scoring punch and lengthy injury history are major concerns for a contending team in need of reliable depth.
The LSU product has appeared in just 108 regular-season games over the past four seasons. Simmons has averaged just six points per game during that span, though he's still a solid rebounder, playmaker and defender.
At 6-foot-10, the 29-year-old remains an impactful defender, capable of guarding all five positions.
While it wouldn't be surprising if New York ultimately goes another direction, Simmons remains a potential candidate for the Knicks — especially if they miss out on signing a player like Beasley on a discount.
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