The New York Knicks have been interested in Ben Simmons for the majority of the offseason, but the latest update on Simmons may not be what the Knicks want to hear.
Per Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, Simmons has been contemplating if he even wants to continue his basketball career. The former Philadelphia 76ers All-Star has seen his career derailed by injuries and inconsistent performances.
The Knicks still have a roster spot to fill this offseason, and have shown plenty of interest in Simmons filling that final spot. With Simmons now contemplating possible retirement, those plans could change.
Simmons can still provide an impact in a depth reserve role
Simmons may be far removed from his All-Star days, but he has still provided solid value as a bench player in recent years. Last season with the Los Angeles Clippers and Brooklyn Nets, he averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game in 51 appearances (24 starts).
With Simmons potentially off the table, the Knicks will turn their attention elsewhere to fill out their roster. They’ve shown interest in Russell Westbrook, and Landry Shamet among others. Nonetheless, the Knicks will look to add to a roster that should contend for the Eastern Conference crown next season after an appearance in the conference finals in 2024-25.