If new coach Mike Brown wants the Knicks to sign Ben Simmons in free agency, he will get it done, one NBA executive told NJ Advance Media.
“If Brown wants Simmons, it will happen for sure,” the executive said. “The new coach always gets what he wants.”
Scoop B. Robinson reported that Brown “salivated” over the idea of Simmons joining the Sacramento Kings last year before Brown was fired in December.
The 6-foot-10 Simmons, 29, remains a free agent after splitting time last season with the Brooklyn Nets and L.A. Clippers. He agreed to a contract buyout with the Nets in February.
The former No. 1 overall pick out of LSU is a three-time NBA All-Star, but hasn’t played more than 51 games in the last three seasons.
Last season he averaged 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.6 assists with the Clippers and Nets.
As it relates to the Knicks, Simmons and Josh Hart are similar players and there also may not be much playing time available for Simmons given the team’s new-look bench including Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele.
The Knicks could also opt to fortify their frontcourt by re-signing Precious Achiuwa, who averaged 6.6 points and 5.6 rebounds last season.
Adam Zagoria is a freelance reporter and Basketball Insider for NJ Advance Media. You may follow him on Twitter @AdamZagoriaand check out his Website atZAGSBLOG.com.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.