Ben Simmons Hits NBA Buyout Market, Draws Interest from Multiple Teams

This was not how Ben Simmons’ career was supposed to pan out, but it has. After a turbulent few years, the Brooklyn Nets have agreed to buyout Ben Simmons’ contract. This means that the 28-year-old will hit the NBA buyout market, and few franchises have already expressed interest in acquiring Simmons – who's now a free agent.

According to Chris Haynes, the former All-Star has already met with representatives of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers on Friday, with the Houston Rockets also expected to sit down with him soon. Simmons was set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, but his massive $40 million contract for this season made any trade virtually impossible for the Nets. Instead of dragging things out, Brooklyn has opted for a buyout, allowing them to part ways with Simmons while giving the 28-year-old a chance to hit the market early. Now, he has the opportunity to land in a winning situation, where he could reinvent himself as a key contributor off the bench. 

Ben Simmons’ time in Brooklyn was defined by injuries, particularly lingering back issues that have troubled him since his days in Philadelphia. As a result, he managed to play just 90 games across three seasons with the Nets, putting up modest averages of 6.5 points, 6.3 assists, and 6.2 rebounds per game. However, there’s been a silver lining this season – Simmons has been relatively healthy, appearing in 33 of Brooklyn’s 51 games. While he’s nowhere near the All-Star level he once reached with the Sixers – and he may never be again – he’s shown flashes of being a reliable role player in the right system. 

Among the teams he's meeting with, Cleveland seems like the most intriguing fit. The Cavs currently hold the top spot in the East, boast a top-10 defense, and have serious championship aspirations. They already made a strong move at the deadline by adding De’Andre Hunter, but taking a low-risk chance on Simmons for a near-minimum deal could be a smart gamble. If he clicks, Cleveland gains a versatile 6’10” point forward who could be a defensive asset against Boston’s wings in the playoffs. If not, they can move on in the summer with no real consequences. 

At this point, signing Ben Simmons is a low-risk move for any team willing to take a chance on him. Without that massive $40 million contract hanging over his head, he’s no longer the financial gamble he once was. Instead, this could be the perfect opportunity for Simmons to prove he still has something to offer, essentially serving as a trial run before hitting free agency this summer. If he impresses, he could land himself a more stable role on a reasonable contract. If not, teams can simply move on without any real downside.