Ben Simmons, despite struggling with a persistent lower back injury that required a microscopic partial discectomy, continues to attract considerable attention ahead of the 2025 NBA free agency period. The New York Knicks have emerged as a leading team demonstrating Ben Simmons Knicks strong interest for their final roster position as his decision looms and affects other high-profile player markets.
Ben Simmons’ Injury and Current Market Status
Simmons has faced ongoing challenges maintaining peak performance due to his back condition. Although he underwent surgery to improve his health, the aftereffects still influence his game. Nonetheless, he remains one of the more sought-after players entering the 2025 offseason. His status has caused a ripple effect in the market, including delays related to Russell Westbrook’s potential trades or signings. Reports from multiple sources indicate that an Eastern Conference contender, confirmed to be the Knicks, continues to display strong interest in securing Simmons for their upcoming roster.
Ben Simmons is certainly a candidate for the Knicks’ final roster spot. As of earlier this week, New York continued to show strong interest in signing Simmons as teams in on Simmons await his decision.
—Ian Begley
Ian Begley, a respected NBA reporter, confirms that the Knicks’ interest remains steady, highlighting Simmons as a key candidate as they finalize their squad for the next season.
Cautions from NBA Analyst Eddie Johnson on Potential Teams
In an interview aired on SiriusXM NBA Radio, analyst Eddie Johnson advised caution regarding two major teams Simmons might consider, specifically pointing out Boston and New York. Johnson emphasized that although Simmons is exceedingly intelligent as a player, joining either of those teams might not be an optimal decision for his career moving forward.
He’s one of the smartest players in the league with the ball in his hands. I think he’s crazy if he [goes to] Boston or New York.
—Eddie Johnson
This perspective underlines the complexities surrounding Simmons’ next move, illustrating how player fit and organizational dynamics are also factors beyond pure talent or opportunity.
Ben Simmons’ Recent Performance and Team Context
Earlier in 2025, Simmons signed a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. During the 2024-25 NBA season, the Clippers finished fifth in the Western Conference with a solid 50-32 record. Despite a strong regular season, their playoff run was cut short by the Denver Nuggets in the first round. Simmons contributed an average of 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists across 51 games, reflecting a role that balanced playmaking with team support rather than scoring dominance.
Implications of the Knicks’ Continued Interest in Simmons
The Knicks’ ongoing pursuit of Simmons signals a strategic move to strengthen their roster with a versatile player who can impact both offense and defense when fully healthy. This interest appears to be part of a broader trend in the league where several teams are vying for Simmons’ commitment, influencing motions in related free agency dealings. With his decision still pending, the Knicks and other contenders remain on alert, preparing for potential adjustments depending on Simmons’ choice.
As free agency progresses, Simmons’ final destination could significantly affect the Eastern Conference landscape, either by bolstering the Knicks’ ambitions or shaping the moves of other teams seeking a talented, though currently recuperating, All-Star. The unfolding developments in this situation warrant close attention from fans and analysts alike.