Knicks Beat Writer Explains Why He Doesn't Think Ben Simmons is an Option

In a new column for The Athletic, New York Knicks' beat reporter James Edwards III explained why he doesn't think Ben Simmons would be a good fit for the team. 

After adding free agents Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele this summer, the Knicks still have one open roster spot and are expected to fill it with an experienced veteran. 

Simmons has had a long and winding career since he was drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016. He had only played in 383 games since then, but has had some real highs including three All-Star game appearances and two appearances on the NBA All-Defense First Team. 

These days Simmons has established himself as a role player who still shoots the ball poorly, but can run also run an offense, rebound very well and play strong defense. He has been connected as a free agent option for several teams including the Knicks. 

Edwards III doesn't think the player is a fit for the team he covers, writing in a mailbag: 

"Simmons’ inability to shoot — or even look at the basket — makes it so that Brown couldn’t successfully play him with non-shooters like Josh Hart and Mitchell Robinson. Giving significant minutes to a guard or wing who isn’t willingly looking to score isn’t something I’d sign up for."

As Edwards notes, the Knicks already have non-shooters in Hart, who teams sometimes leave open from three, and Mitchell Robinson, who often gets the hack-a-Shaq treatment late in games. The beat reporter gives offers some better fits in Malcolm Brogdon, Delon Wright and Monté Morris.