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No. 1 Pick ‘Intends To Sign’ With Clippers

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Ben Simmons playing against Los Angeles Clippers

Just an hour after completing a contract buyout agreement with the Brooklyn Nets, Ben Simmons has agreed to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, per ESPN senior insider Shams Charania. Simmons, a three-time All-Star, was the No. 1 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. In 2024-25, he’s averaging 6.2 points, 6.9 assists, 5.2 rebounds, 0.8 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game.

Ben Simmons ‘Intends To Sign’ With LA Clippers

It’s unclear what Simmons’s exact role will be with the Clippers.

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Nevertheless, given the presence of James Harden, he’s unlikely to start. To that point, Simmons has started in 24 of the 33 games he’s played this season. In fact, he started in 69 of the 90 games that he played for the Nets.

Much could depend on how Los Angeles wants to use Derrick Jones Jr. and Kris Dunn. Particularly as Kawhi Leonard has returned from injury. Dunn, a defensive stud, has started in 29 games for the Clippers this season. However, he’s been unable to find his touch, shooting 29.3 percent from three-point range. For comparison’s sake, Jones is shooting 36.7 percent from three. Thus, the nine-year veteran could be best suited as Harden’s primary backup, L.A. relying more on his playmaking than off-ball scoring.

If so, Simmons could find himself playing a more dynamic role that sees him in multiple positions. As it’s the way that he’s been utilized over the past two seasons, it might be what’s best for him anyways. As long as he’s able to affect the game with his length, basketball IQ, passing and defense, it doesn’t matter whether he’s called a point guard or a center.

Why The Clippers?

There are likely several reasons that Simmons decided to sign with the Clippers.

Just as with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Houston Rockets, who Simmons also reportedly met with, they’re a playoff contender. Though his infamous under-the-basket playoff decision precipitated the decline of his mental health, Simmons clearly believes he’s ready for redemption. He won’t be playing the way that people want, which usually involves discussions about him taking (and making) three-pointers. However, with Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez’s prodding, he’s become more aggressive as a scorer.

Another factor to consider is Leonard’s health. On the one hand, the fact that Leonard has yet to be completely healthy could cause concern for an injury-prone player like Simmons. Yet, reports that Leonard was suffering from a degenerative leg injury began all the way back in 2018. If so, the Clippers might have actually extended Leonard’s career. Perhaps they could do the same for Simmons. Even if not, L.A.’s willingness to diligently and patiently work with Leonard so that his can maximize his short- and long-term future has to be appealing to the Melbourne native.

The fact that a postseason contender with a supportive medical staff is located in Los Angeles? Well, that’s even better. The ambiance and attractions are appealing to many people, especially the ultra-rich and famous.

Furthermore, playing in a large market –now just a playoff team –could help him earn his next contract.

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