The Brooklyn Nets-New York Knicks rivalry will likely continue without Ben Simmons joining the Knicks this offseason. Simmons, a former Nets guard acquired in a trade involving James Harden over three years ago, had been a rumored target for New York in free agency but now seems unlikely to make that move. Despite interest from the Knicks and several other teams, sources suggest Simmons is steering clear of a high-pressure market like New York at this point in his career.
During the 2024-25 NBA season, Simmons appeared in 33 games for the Nets before being bought out to allow him to finish the season with the LA Clippers. This summer marks the second time Simmons can exercise his option to pick a team freely, with the Knicks once again mentioned as a possible destination. However, according to reporting by Sean Deveney of Athlon Sports, that option has effectively diminished.
NBA General Manager Explains Why Knicks Are a Low Priority for Simmons
An anonymous NBA general manager explained Simmons’ unwillingness to join the Knicks, emphasizing the high level of scrutiny the veteran would face in New York. The GM said,
“Of the places he could land, [the Knicks would] be at the bottom of the list,”
adding that the pressure of playing in such an intense market does not appeal to Simmons. The Knicks, who recently parted ways with coach Tom Thibodeau in part to create roster flexibility, prefer to develop their younger players without a veteran who may miss significant time due to injury.
This commentary highlights both Simmons’ aversion to constant public attention and the Knicks’ plan to preserve opportunity for their emerging talent. The GM noted that adding a veteran player who might be sidelined for half the season could hinder the team’s long-term evaluation of its youthful roster.
Other Teams Show Interest but No Commitment Yet
New York is not the only franchise linked to Simmons this offseason. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Sacramento Kings, Boston Celtics, and Phoenix Suns have also expressed interest. Despite these inquiries, Simmons remains unsigned, raising questions about where the guard will land next.
His previous experiences with Philadelphia and Brooklyn—both passionate basketball cities with vocal fan bases—suggest that playing in Madison Square Garden may not be an appealing option given the intense spotlight. Both fans and media in such markets can be relentless, which seems to discourage Simmons from committing to a similar environment.
The Challenge of Finding the Right Fit for Ben Simmons
It is unfortunate that the scrutiny surrounding Simmons’ career may prevent him from joining a team where his skills could potentially thrive. His unique talents have made him an anomaly in professional basketball, but the pressure and high expectations in major markets have taken a toll. Even a move to Boston, which shares a passionate fan base, might present similar challenges, leaving uncertainty about how well Simmons will adapt.
For now, Ben Simmons is faced with the difficult task of determining where he will play next season, balancing his desire to contribute on the court with the personal need to avoid overwhelming public and media pressure. The offseason will reveal if any team can offer the right environment for him to return to form and help lead a winning squad.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Ben Simmons date a Kardashian?
A. After Kendall Jenner ended her relationship with Blake Griffin, she began seeing Ben Simmons in 2018. They were together for a year before breaking up.
Q. Why was Ben Simmons suspended?
A. Ben Simmons has been suspended for one game because his behavior negatively affected the team.
Q. Why did Kendall Jenner leave Ben Simmons?
A. According to our Kardashian sources, Kim and Brandon shared a “kiss” when Kim was about 11 and Brandon was 12. At that time, Kris and Bruce were dating but not yet married. The kiss took place during a Truth or Dare game and was just a quick peck on the lips.
Q. Why was Ben Simmons fined 17 million dollars?
A. Last fall, he skipped the 76ers’ training camp and missed a preseason match. As a result, the team fined him a large amount and began withholding his pay.