Ben Simmons Reportedly Considers NBA Retirement Amid Knicks,Celtics Interest

Ben Simmons, a three-time NBA All-Star and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, is currently an unrestricted free agent and reportedly considering retirement despite interest from multiple NBA teams, including the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics. Simmons' career has been marred by injuries, including back surgery in 2022, and a significant decline in performance and confidence, especially following a controversial moment in the 2021 playoffs. His recent seasons have seen limited playing time and diminished statistics, with his output dropping noticeably during his stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers. While the Knicks and Celtics have offered contracts, with the Knicks reportedly offering more than $5 million, Simmons appears uncertain about continuing his NBA career. The Celtics see Simmons as a potential fit to fill the void left by Jayson Tatum's expected absence, valuing his size, defense, and playmaking, albeit at a lower level than Tatum. Simmons, who has earned over $203 million in his career, is weighing his options and may soon decide whether to retire or accept a contract, highlighting a career of early promise followed by setbacks and controversy.