Like last year, the New York Knicks have a huge challenge ahead. Though, unlike last year, the Knicks are now trying to overcome even higher expectations after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals and firing Tom Thibodeau.
If Thibodeau’s results weren’t good enough, surely Mike Brown will need to do even better, right? Plus, it’s not like the Knicks made drastic roster improvements, unlike last year when they went all-in and added Karl-Anthony Towns before the season tipped off.
Yet, the Knicks may not be done adding to the roster after signing Guerschon Yabusele and Jordan Clarkson this offseason.
According to [SNY TV’s Ian Begley](https://sny.tv/articles/knicks-mailbag-who-will-mike-brown-bring-fill-out-staff), the Knicks have stayed in contact with three-time All-Star Ben Simmons, who’s still unsigned in free agency.
> “Who might the Knicks sign with that veteran’s minimum deal? They have continued to touch base with Ben Simmons during the free agency period. I’m sure they have touched base with other vets as well. Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook are among the lead guards still on the market. Teams are wondering if Washington will agree to a buyout with veteran guard Marcus Smart.”
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> Ian Begley on New York Knicks
While Simmons has been oft-criticized for having a minimal impact on a maximum contract, getting him on a veteran minimum salary could be a steal. Plus, Simmons may feel a great sense of relief if he could get a change of scenery without all the pressure of performing at an All-Star level, like he once did.
Though Simmons doesn’t add much from a scoring standpoint, the Knicks may value his ability to provide plus defense while still being a more than capable distributor.
**Related: [Nine-time All-Star linked to New York Knicks in NBA free agency](https://sportsnaut.com/nba/nine-time-all-star-linked-to-new-york-knicks-in-nba-free-agency/)**