The New York Knicks have been active during the offseason, strengthening their bench with several key acquisitions as they search for a reliable point guard. Among the prospects, Ben Simmons, a three-time All-Star, was once considered a prime target, but recent reports indicate that adding him to the roster is becoming unlikely. The Knicks are exploring other veteran options such as Malcolm Brogdon, Russell Westbrook, and Chris Paul, though each presents their own difficulties.
Examining the Backup Point Guard Candidates
The team’s need for a dependable backup point guard has led the Knicks to evaluate a handful of experienced players whose availability remains uncertain. Malcolm Brogdon is recognized for his ability to score and distribute, potentially offering much-needed stability for New York’s backcourt. Chris Paul, a future Hall of Famer, has shown interest in playing closer to home in California, a factor that complicates any potential trade to the East Coast. Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook’s desire for a significant role could make fitting into the Knicks’ system challenging.
Ben Simmons’ Declining Performance Raises Doubts
Ben Simmons, originally the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft selected by the Philadelphia 76ers, has seen a sharp decline from his earlier prime years. Once praised for his versatile skill set, he has struggled to maintain consistent production and has not averaged double digits in key stats since 2021. In the last season, Simmons appeared in 51 games split between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, posting averages of just 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game, far from his previous All-Star level.
Weighing the Knicks’ Next Moves at Point Guard
As the Knicks continue their pursuit of a strong point guard, the options available are intriguing but complicated. While the prospect of acquiring Simmons has dimmed, the team’s decisions this offseason will be critical in shaping their roster ahead of the new campaign. Balancing veteran experience with fit and availability remains a complex puzzle for the organization as they aim to strengthen their backcourt depth.
“Malcolm Brogdon could provide the Knicks with much-needed stability.” —Anonymous Analyst
“A future Hall of Famer, Chris Paul has expressed a desire to be closer to his family in California, complicating his potential move to New York.” —Insider Source
“With a history of needing a significant role, Westbrook may not fit into the Knicks’ plans as seamlessly as they would hope.” —NBA Commentator
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Ben Simmons date a Kardashian?
A. Kendall Jenner and Ben Simmons began going out together in May 2018, but their relationship ended by September of the same year.
Q. Why was Ben Simmons suspended?
A. Simmons apparently did not join a certain part of the practice, especially a defensive exercise, before being asked to leave. Furthermore, Wojnarowski mentioned that the Sixers fined Simmons $1.4 million because he missed four preseason games.
Q. Why did Kendall Jenner leave Ben Simmons?
A. Sources from our Kardashian archives reveal that the “kiss” happened when Kim was about 11 and Brandon was 12. At that time, Kris and Bruce weren’t married yet but were seeing each other. The kiss happened during a Truth or Dare game and was just a quick peck on the lips.
Q. What is Ben Simmons diagnosed with?
A. On March 24, the Nets shared that Simmons was dealing with a nerve issue in his back and would be sidelined indefinitely.