The New York Knicks have been an intriguing team to follow in the offseason. After making some significant personnel changes, including the firing of coach Tom Thibodeau and the hiring of Mike Brown, the Knicks will turn their attention to improving their roster.
After coming up short in the ECF this year, it was evident that the Knicks had to address some depth issues. With defensive shortcomings becoming a major point of conflict, much of which was pinned on Karl-Anthony Towns, New York will look to amp up its defensive integrity this season.
To do so, the Knicks have shifted their gaze to the free agency market, with several players being viewed favorably. As per SNY’s Ian Begley, former 3x All-Star Ben Simmons could be a target for the Knicks on a veteran minimum contract. He wrote:
“Also, the Knicks have enough money for one veteran minimum contract and one rookie contract before they reach the second apron. They have been in touch with players who can fill a backup guard role 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.”
Begley mentioned other veterans such as Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, and Marcus Smart, all of whom are currently seeking new teams. With Paul drawing more attention from the Bucks and the Clippers, it seems more likely that he will opt to play on those teams.
While Begley also mentions how the Knicks could consider Landry Shamet as a potential guard option in free agency, Simmons might be the better pick for them, especially since New York already acquired Jordan Clarkson.
At 6’10”, Simmons is effectively a big man with the skill set of a guard. While his playmaking skills and ball-handling ability were traditionally his best assets, the 28-year-old offers major defensive upside, which the Knicks would have more interest in.
Simmons’ athleticism and length allow him to guard multiple positions. His large frame also lets him stand his ground against larger opponents, often addressing problems created by mismatches.
In the traditional sense, however, the former 3x All-Star doesn’t bring much to the table offensively. Last season, Simmons put up an average of 5.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. His productivity declined after joining the Los Angeles Clippers, as his usage rate fell.
The free agency market has brought new opportunities for the guard, as Simmons has garnered some interest from teams. While his motor is questionable and his constant run-ins with injuries could be a concern, on a veteran’s minimum deal, the guard would be a solid pick-up to bolster the Knicks’ playmaking and defense.
Coming off the bench, the 28-year-old could add a lot of flexibility to New York’s rotation. When also considering the high-octane style of offense that Mike Brown likes to run with, Simmons would benefit from simply being a playmaker instead of the center of the offense.
Given the current landscape of the East, the Knicks are poised to be one of the top teams in the conference. With an opportunity to make it out of the East and compete in the NBA Finals, the Knicks will need to bolster their roster depth to ensure they can make the journey.
