The New York Knicks are taking a calculated gamble, with the potential acquisition of Ben Simmons hinging on his commitment to playing. This Risk vs. Reward scenario sees the Knicks evaluating the three-time All-Star, whose NBA future hangs in the balance as he contemplates a return to the court for the 2025-26 season. While his talent is undeniable, uncertainty surrounding his health and mental readiness are creating a complex situation for the Knicks and other interested teams.
Knicks’ Interest in Ben Simmons
A Potential Boost for New York
Fresh off an appearance in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks are actively exploring options to enhance their roster. Ben Simmons, despite his recent challenges, presents an intriguing possibility. His ability to defend multiple positions and create plays on offense aligns with the Knicks’ desire to add versatility and depth. According to reports from SNY’s Ian Begley, the Knicks see Simmons as a low-risk, high-reward addition if he can regain his form.
However, the Knicks aren’t alone in their interest. Several other teams, including the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, and Phoenix Suns, have also reportedly expressed interest in Simmons, per various NBA news outlets. This competition could influence the terms of any potential deal, though Simmons’ current situation likely limits his market value.
Simmons’ Uncertain Future
Doubts and Deliberations
The primary obstacle to any team acquiring Ben Simmons is Simmons himself. Reports suggest he is currently questioning his desire to continue playing in the NBA. This uncertainty stems from a combination of factors, including persistent injury issues and the mental challenges he has faced in recent years. As noted by Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, Simmons’ decision will dictate whether any team, including the Knicks, pursues him aggressively.
Simmons’ career has been marred by setbacks. Chronic back and nerve problems have limited his availability, and a well-documented “mental block” regarding his shooting has impacted his performance. These issues contributed to a contract buyout from the Brooklyn Nets, further clouding his future. His holdout from the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2021-22 season also raised concerns about his commitment and professionalism.
The Contract Conundrum
Minimum Deal on the Table?
Given Simmons’ recent struggles and uncertain future, any team signing him would likely offer a veteran minimum contract. This type of deal would minimize the financial risk while providing Simmons with an opportunity to prove himself. Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report has predicted that Simmons will sign a minimum deal with the Knicks. This low-cost approach aligns with the Knicks’ strategy of adding depth without significantly impacting their salary cap flexibility.
However, even a minimum deal carries risk. The Knicks would need to carefully assess Simmons’ physical and mental readiness before committing. His injury history and past performance issues necessitate thorough due diligence to avoid a situation where he is unable to contribute consistently. The Knicks’ medical staff and coaching personnel would play a crucial role in evaluating Simmons’ potential.
Impact on the Knicks’ Roster
Delaying the Final Decision
Simmons’ ongoing deliberation is impacting the Knicks’ roster decisions. The team currently has one open roster spot, and his potential addition is delaying the finalization of their 14th player. According to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, the Knicks are hesitant to fill the spot until they have a clearer understanding of Simmons’ intentions. This cautious approach reflects the significant uncertainty surrounding his future.
The Knicks must weigh the potential benefits of signing Simmons against the risks of allocating a roster spot to a player whose availability and performance are questionable. If Simmons decides to retire or is deemed unfit to play, the Knicks would need to pivot and explore alternative options to fill their remaining roster spot. This could involve signing another free agent, promoting a player from their G League affiliate, or making a trade.
The Pressure Cooker of New York
Media Scrutiny and Expectations
Some reports suggest that Simmons might be hesitant to join the Knicks due to the intense media scrutiny in New York. Having previously played in Philadelphia and Brooklyn, he is familiar with the pressures of playing in large media markets. The New York media landscape is particularly demanding, and Simmons’ past struggles have made him a target for criticism. According to Marc Stein, Simmons is aware of the challenges that come with playing in New York and is carefully considering whether he is prepared to handle the pressure.
The Knicks’ coaching staff and front office would need to provide Simmons with a supportive environment to help him navigate the media attention and manage expectations. A strong support system could be crucial in helping him regain his confidence and focus on his game. However, the inherent pressures of playing in New York could also exacerbate his existing challenges.
A Career at a Crossroads
What if Simmons Retires?
Should Ben Simmons decide to retire, it would mark an untimely end to a career that began with immense potential. Drafted first overall in 2016, Simmons quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising young players, earning three All-Star selections and showcasing his unique combination of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability. However, his career trajectory has been derailed by injuries, mental health challenges, and inconsistent performance.
A retirement would leave a void in the NBA landscape, depriving fans of the opportunity to witness Simmons reach his full potential. It would also raise questions about the impact of mental health challenges on professional athletes and the support systems available to them. Simmons’ experience could serve as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health concerns and providing athletes with the resources they need to thrive.
Conclusion
The New York Knicks’ pursuit of Ben Simmons is a high-stakes gamble, contingent on his decision to return to the NBA. While Simmons offers a unique skillset that could bolster the Knicks’ roster, the risks associated with his injury history and mental state are significant. His ultimate choice will not only determine his own future but also impact the Knicks’ roster construction and their aspirations for the upcoming season. The Knicks must carefully weigh the potential rewards against the inherent risks before making a final decision on whether to pursue the former All-Star.
