The New York Knicks Have Reportedly Emerged As Leading Candidates To Sign Ben Simmons On A Veteran Minimum Contract Deal

In a surprising yet fascinating twist to the 2025 NBA offseason, the New York Knicks have reportedly emerged as the leading candidates to sign Ben Simmons on a veteran minimum deal, according to NBA insider Brett Siegel. It’s a potential move that could shake the foundation of the Eastern Conference, or at the very least, redefine Simmons’ career narrative. For the Knicks, the possibility of acquiring the former All-Star on a bargain contract represents a classic low-risk, high-reward gamble—one that could either become a stroke of genius or a forgettable footnote.

Ben Simmons, still just 29 years old, has had one of the most turbulent journeys in modern NBA history. Once hailed as a generational talent with a rare combination of size, vision, and defensive prowess, Simmons’ trajectory has been marred by injuries, off-court mental health battles, and a sharp decline in performance and public confidence. After being sidelined for the entirety of the 2024–25 season due to lingering back issues and a mutual separation from the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons is now reportedly healthy and motivated to make a return. The Knicks might just be the team willing to give him that chance.

From a pure basketball standpoint, Simmons still brings a unique skill set to the table. At 6-foot-10, his ability to facilitate as a point-forward, push the pace in transition, and defend multiple positions remains valuable—especially on a team like the Knicks that has made defense and hustle a core part of its identity under head coach Tom Thibodeau. But even more than that, the Knicks may view Simmons as a reclamation project that fits perfectly into their larger goals.

New York has been quietly piecing together one of the most formidable rosters in the Eastern Conference. The additions of Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby, combined with the core of Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, Josh Hart, and Mitchell Robinson, have made the Knicks a rugged, deep, and defensively stifling unit. They were one of the top three teams in the East last season before injuries derailed their playoff run. The team doesn’t necessarily need Simmons to play like an All-Star again. They need him to be a reliable contributor, a smart playmaker, and a defensive disruptor off the bench.

That’s why the reported veteran minimum contract is so intriguing. Financially, it’s a steal. Simmons would cost the Knicks just over $2.7 million, barely a dent in their cap sheet. For a team with championship aspirations, it’s the kind of depth piece that could make a real difference in the long grind of the regular season. And if he’s unable to stay healthy or contribute meaningfully, the investment is small enough to walk away from without consequence.

But for Simmons, this opportunity represents much more than just a roster spot. It’s a chance to rebuild his NBA image, silence critics, and perhaps most importantly, rediscover his love for the game. Sources close to Simmons have indicated that the former No. 1 overall pick has been working diligently on his conditioning, rehabbing his back, and training privately in Florida. The motivation is there. Now, he just needs the platform.

The New York media market is as intense as they come, but Simmons is no stranger to pressure. He played under the unforgiving spotlight of Philadelphia, where expectations were sky-high and patience was low. If he’s mentally and physically prepared, there may be no better place for a redemption arc than Madison Square Garden, the Mecca of Basketball. A strong season in New York—even as a role player—could resurrect his free agent value and reestablish him as a relevant figure in the league’s conversation.

Still, there are obvious risks. Simmons hasn’t played more than 42 games in a season since 2021. His shooting remains a glaring issue, both from the perimeter and the free throw line. And while he was once among the league leaders in assists and steals, he hasn’t shown that same burst or confidence in years. For the Knicks, the decision to pursue Simmons isn’t about who he used to be—it’s about who he might still become in the right role, with the right support system.

Thibodeau is known for demanding effort and intensity, particularly on the defensive end. It’s easy to envision Simmons being utilized as a small-ball five or a defensive specialist against elite wings and guards. With Brunson and Randle handling much of the offensive load, Simmons would be free to play to his strengths—facilitating, defending, rebounding, and pushing tempo without the burden of scoring expectations. It’s a framework that could protect him physically while maximizing what he can still offer.

The Knicks’ front office, led by Leon Rose, has earned a reputation for calculated decision-making. They’ve avoided the kind of impulsive, headline-chasing trades that plagued the organization for decades. Signing Simmons on a minimum deal fits that philosophy—taking a flier on a former star without sacrificing future flexibility or current chemistry. The Knicks aren’t betting the farm on Simmons. They’re simply opening the door and seeing if he can walk through it.

And if he does? The upside is tantalizing. Imagine a fully healthy Ben Simmons giving New York 15–20 quality minutes per game, defending top scorers, facilitating second units, and helping run in transition with the bench mob. Imagine him regaining some confidence at the free throw line and rediscovering his swagger as a downhill attacker. Imagine the headlines if Simmons becomes one of the feel-good stories of the season, going from castoff to key contributor on a title contender. Stranger things have happened in the NBA.

Simmons would also join a locker room with strong leadership and a family-like culture. The chemistry between Brunson, Hart, and Donte DiVincenzo—dating back to their Villanova days—has been the glue holding the Knicks together. Bringing in Simmons adds a new personality, but not necessarily a disruptive one. Teammates have rarely questioned Simmons’ character; instead, his availability and mindset have drawn the most scrutiny. If he’s truly recommitted, he could benefit immensely from the professionalism and stability of the current Knicks roster.

Beyond basketball, this potential signing is a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NBA. Just four years ago, Simmons was a Defensive Player of the Year candidate and an All-NBA selection. Now, he’s fighting for a chance to stay in the league. But the Knicks are known for offering players second chances—look no further than the success stories of Derrick Rose and Isaiah Hartenstein. Sometimes, the right environment makes all the difference.

Of course, the deal is not yet official. Other teams could emerge with interest. Simmons may still be evaluating the best path forward. But if Brett Siegel’s report proves accurate, and if the Knicks are indeed the frontrunners, this could become one of the more quietly impactful moves of the summer.

Fans will have mixed reactions. Some will see Simmons as damaged goods, a once-great player who no longer has the explosiveness or confidence to thrive. Others will welcome the move, excited by the prospect of a reinvigorated Simmons contributing to a winning team. Knicks fans are nothing if not passionate, and Madison Square Garden loves a comeback story. If Simmons can stay healthy and buy into his role, this partnership could be mutually beneficial.

For now, the league waits. The Knicks have made bold moves before—signing Jalen Brunson was once considered a risk, and it turned out to be a franchise-altering decision. Adding Simmons on a minimum contract isn’t quite the same scale, but it could wind up being a sneaky masterstroke. In the end, the question is simple: Does Ben Simmons still have something left to give?

If the answer is yes, then New York just might be the perfect place for him to give it.