Veteran guard/forward Ben Simmons may choose to end his NBA career rather than sign a new deal ahead of training camp, according to a report from the New York Post published on September 4.
A source told the Post’s Stefan Bondy that the 29-year-old former No. 1 pick is unsure whether he wants to continue playing. The New York Knicks have shown interest but can only extend a veteran-minimum offer worth a little more than $3 million, well below the contracts Simmons commanded earlier in his career.
Simmons has earned more than $200 million since entering the league, yet recurring back problems—highlighted by multiple surgeries—have raised questions about how much longer he wants to push his body.
Agent Bernie Lee informed the National Basketball Players Association that he no longer represents Simmons, NBA insider Marc Stein reported on X (formerly Twitter) at 1:45 p.m. CST on Thursday.
New York’s front office is also evaluating guard Landry Shamet and at least one additional free agent to fill its final roster spot, Bondy noted. The Knicks have contacted representatives for Malik Beasley as well, though his availability remains in flux because of an ongoing federal gambling investigation. Beasley could secure a more lucrative offer if teams are convinced he will be cleared to play.
Simmons split last season between the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists across 51 games—the highest total he has logged since his 2020-21 All-Star campaign.
Beyond limited cap space, the Knicks may struggle to guarantee Simmons consistent minutes after adding Guerschon Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson earlier this summer. The club’s current core reached the Eastern Conference Finals last season.
Bondy added that at least one other franchise is still interested in Simmons, though he did not specify which team. The Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors, both of whom have open roster spots, have been mentioned as potential suitors.
Source: Hoops Rumors
