Ben Simmons, once hailed as a generational talent and defensive stalwart, now finds himself adrift in the NBA free-agent market, waiting for a lifeline that may never come.
As ESPN’s Bobby Marks noted, Simmons is caught in a “numbers crunch”, one of nearly 75 players who finished the 2024–25 season on a roster but remain unsigned heading into the new campaign.
Simmons’ decline has been steep and well-documented. After earning three All-Star selections and two All-Defensive First Team honors during his early years with the Philadelphia 76ers, injuries and confidence issues have derailed his trajectory. His most recent stint with the Los Angeles Clippers saw him average just 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists over 18 games, a far cry from the versatile playmaker he once was.
The 2025 NBA Draft added 41 new players to the league, many of whom signed guaranteed contracts. These rookies have effectively replaced veterans like Simmons on team rosters. With most franchises already at or near the 15-player limit, opportunities for minimum-contract veterans are scarce.
Despite his diminished production, Simmons has drawn interest from several teams, including the New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, and Phoenix Suns. The Knicks, in particular, are reportedly considering him for their final roster spot, viewing his size and defensive versatility as potential assets for their second unit. However, no team has made an official move, and Simmons may need to wait until midseason for a chance to return to the court.
Interestingly, Simmons’ indecision is reportedly holding up the market for other free agents, including Russell Westbrook and Malcolm Brogdon.
If NBA doors remain closed, Simmons may need to consider overseas options. European clubs could offer him a fresh start, though such a move would mark a dramatic shift for a player once considered a franchise cornerstone.
