Knicks among teams interested in trading for Ben Simmons: report

The Knicks are among the teams interested in trading for Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons, reports Shams Charania of The Athletic, who says Philadelphia is “ramping up” efforts to “spark multi-team trade scenarios.”

Per Charania, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Portland Trail Blazers, and Sacramento Kings are also interested in Simmons.

Simmons, 25, has not played this season after saying he is not mentally ready to be on the court.

He was reportedly upset last season after being involved in trade rumors.

Simmons is in the second season of a five-year deal worth $177.2 million, and is not due to hit free agency until after the 2024-25 season.

According to Charania, Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey is prepared to trade Simmons once the team’s asking price is met.

That price, per Charania, is currently an All-Star caliber player and/or multiple first-round draft picks.

The Knicks could be in prime position to deal for Simmons if it’s picks the 76ers want, with New York possessing two first-round picks in both 2022 and 2023.

As far as other potential trade pursuits, SNY’s Ian Begley recently reported that the Knicks have interest in trading for Pacers big man Myles Turner.

New York has struggled badly after a 5-1 start to the season, going 7-14 over their last 21 games to fall out of playoff position in the Eastern Conference.