The 2025 NBA offseason continues with several significant trades underway, yet the league remains focused on the uncertain situation involving Ben Simmons. Simmons, who has recently struggled with a nerve issue in his lower back, continues to be highly sought after in free agency. His impending decision is reportedly causing delays in trade discussions concerning Russell Westbrook.
Sources indicate that teams interested in Westbrook are hesitant to finalize deals as they await clarity on Simmons’ future. NBA insider Jake L. Fischer explained this dynamic, highlighting Simmons’ age and potential upside as key factors influencing the market for Westbrook.
I think Westbrook is another player who’s being held up by Ben Simmons. You know, he’s had interest from Sacramento [Kings]. He had interest from New York [Knicks] at one point in time, but I do think that Simmons is younger and theoretically has more upside left on the table. Russ is a big personality. I think he is in the holding pattern just like Malcolm Brogdon behind Ben Simmons here,
—Jake L. Fischer, NBA Insider
Eastern Conference Powerhouses Compete to Acquire Simmons
As speculation around Simmons intensifies, the Boston Celtics have emerged as the front-runners to secure his services this offseason. According to betting odds released by Bovada, the Celtics lead the race among teams interested in the talented but medically challenged guard.
Other teams like the Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, and Sacramento Kings are also in the conversation, but Boston remains the favorite to come out on top in the sweepstakes.
Boston Celtics +185, Phoenix Suns +255, New York Knicks +375, Sacramento Kings +375, Houston Rockets +600, Cleveland Cavaliers +750, Toronto Raptors +950.
—Bovada
The Boston Celtics are the favorites to win the Ben Simmons sweepstakes, per @BovadaOfficial Boston Celtics +185Phoenix Suns +255New York Knicks +375Sacramento Kings +375Houston Rockets +600Cleveland Cavaliers +750Toronto Raptors +950 pic.twitter.com/tInbUAjZ9W
—NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral)
Reviewing Simmons’ Performance and Its Impact on the Market
During the 2024-25 season, Ben Simmons appeared in only 17 regular-season games for the Los Angeles Clippers due to injury setbacks. His averages were modest, with 2.9 points, 3.1 assists, and 3.8 rebounds per game. The Clippers finished fifth in the Western Conference with a 50-32 record but encountered tough resistance from the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs.
The cautious approach teams are taking regarding Simmons reflects concerns about his health and potential contributions. However, his talent and upside keep him very much in demand, making his trade and free agency decisions critical in shaping several franchises’ futures.
Broader Implications for the NBA Trade Landscape
The stalled movement in the Westbrook market demonstrates how interconnected player decisions are in this offseason. As Simmons’ future remains uncertain, interest in Westbrook—and potentially other veterans—is being deferred. This dynamic is reshaping the way teams approach their rosters and free agency strategies.
With the Boston Celtics positioned as favorites for Simmons, the outcome of his decision could influence not only the makeup of multiple teams but also the tone of upcoming NBA seasons. Fans and analysts alike remain attentive to how these developments unfold, anticipating shifts in team competitiveness across both conferences.