Kings, Knicks Emerging As Top Suitors For Ben Simmons

Ben Simmons may have another NBA opportunity on the horizon, with the Sacramento Kings and New York Knicks emerging as the most likely suitors for the former All-Star, according to insider Jake Fischer.

Simmons, 29, remains one of the more recognizable names on the free agent market, though his recent years have been marked by injuries and inconsistency. He appeared in just 51 games last season between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 6.2 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists while mostly serving in a secondary role.

“We are still anticipating the Kings to be bringing in another veteran guard,” Fischer said in a recent Bleacher Report video segment. “And Ben Simmons is on that list of potential targets, in addition to Russell Westbrook, to Malcolm Brogdon. I think he’d make an interesting addition there.”

Sacramento currently has 12 players on fully guaranteed contracts, along with non-guaranteed deals for Keon Ellis ($2.3 million) and Terence Davis ($2.5 million). The Kings are $9.9 million below the NBA’s first tax apron, giving them some flexibility to make another veteran addition.

Once viewed as a franchise centerpiece in Philadelphia, Simmons is now fighting to extend his career as a rotational piece, offering size, passing and defensive versatility. He was waived by the Nets in February and signed a short-term deal with the Clippers, but saw limited action in Los Angeles.

Fischer floated the Timberwolves as a team where Simmons might fit stylistically, though he clarified Minnesota has not shown any actual interest.

New York, meanwhile, has explored depth options in the backcourt behind Jalen Brunson. The Knicks remain in the mix for Simmons and several others, though no deal appears imminent.

With training camps roughly two months away, Simmons is one of several higher-profile veterans still unsigned. Where he lands and whether he can still contribute remain open questions.