Knicks may take chance on failed $177 million lottery pick via trade with Nets

The New York Knicks would love to hit the jackpot during the trade season, but the organization may have to settle for a wild card. 

The Knicks could surprise the league by acquiring an unsuccessful 2016 lottery pick. 

“Forbes’ Evan Sidery reported Simmons to be a buyout candidate as the Feb. 6 trade deadline nears,” Empire Sports Media’s Matthew Legros wrote Wednesday.  

“Ben Simmons is a player teams will be monitoring as a buyout candidate from the Nets before the trade deadline, Sidery published on X on Tuesday at noon.”

“Simmons holds no trade value on a massive $40.4 million expiring contract, but there’s intrigue for a potential buyout to join a contender on the veteran’s minimum.”

“The LSU product has not been able to regain his All-Star form from four seasons ago but could service the Knicks in more ways than one should the (Brooklyn) Nets cut ties.”

“At the moment, New York is littered with talent in its starting lineup, but the bench could use a major jolt. The Knicks also lack a reliable and sizable combo forward who can make plays for them off of their bench.”

“They are currently rolling with Miles McBride, Cam Payne, and Precious Achiuwa on a condensed rotation most nights, with Jericho Sims’ prominence in that reserve unit coming and going.”

“Even as he struggles to regain his footing, Simmons is still averaging 6.8 assists and 5.3 rebounds per game in 24.7 minutes of nightly action." 

"McBride is a deadeye shooter from deep and in the midrange, while Payne loves to launch from outside and get into the lane for runners.”

“The Knicks bench doesn’t have a talent who favors getting a head of steam going downhill from above the break for interior finishes in the half-court.”

“Simmons can be that for them while furthering their defensive ascent with his exceptional ball-stopping capabilities.” 

“The 6-10 point forward can play all five positions and at this stage of his career, would not command a hefty amount of minutes. He could work wonders for the Knicks as a catalyst on both ends of the floor.”

The NBA world had high hopes for Simmons when he entered the league in 2016. 

Unfortunately, Simmons hasn’t lived up to billing after displaying potential early on, forcing the Nets to consider cutting ties with the disappointing former No. 1 overall pick. 

While it’s safe to say Simmons would be the Knicks’ top trade target, the LSU product’s adequate downhill playmaking ability and defensive intelligence may intrigue New York. 

Perhaps the Knicks will feel inclined to help revive Simmons’ discouraging career.

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