Three landing spots for Ben Simmons if the Nets cut ties with the former All-Star

The Brooklyn Nets are reportedly preparing to part ways with Ben Simmons as his role on the team has diminished in light of Brooklyn’s turn toward rebuilding. While nothing official has been announced about Simmons’ status with the Nets, a buyout seems likely. Simmons started for Brooklyn this season but averaged just 5.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 24 minutes per game. Despite his high salary in the final year of his contract, Simmons’ contributions have been limited, hinting that the Nets may prioritize a youth-focused rebuild for the rest of the year. Since buyouts traditionally happen closer to the trade deadline, here are three teams that could benefit from Simmons’ skills if he were willing to move.

The Warriors have been the most frequently mentioned potential landing spot for Simmons, especially after NBA analyst Bill Simmons recently called him a “great fit” for Stephen Curry and the Warriors’ dynamic style. Golden State has exceeded early-season expectations with a 4-1 record and appears to be moving into a smooth transition following the departure of Klay Thompson in free agency. The additions of De’Anthony Melton and Buddy Hield filled some scoring and defensive holes, with both players making a noticeable impact.

However, all eyes are on forward Jonathan Kuminga, who enters his fourth season with Golden State without a contract extension. Kuminga struggled to secure a regular place in the starting line-up and became the team’s unofficial sixth man under head coach Steve Kerr. If Golden State were to trade Kuminga, Simmons could take over the bench, bringing size, defensive versatility and valuable experience. His past performances with the Philadelphia 76ers demonstrated his strengths as an off-ball playmaker and his ability to operate in pick-and-roll scenarios. While Simmons’ offensive output has declined as of late, pairing him with experienced coordinators like Curry and Draymond Green could maximize his playmaking ability. Given the Warriors’ trajectory, adding Simmons could deepen their rotation and bolster an already exciting and competitive roster.

The Bucks are off to a rocky 1-4 start under head coach Doc Rivers despite Giannis Antetokounmpo averaging 30.4 points, 11.6 rebounds and 5.8 assists. Fans were quick to point out early flaws in Milwaukee’s play, especially in light of the absence of Khris Middleton, who continues to recover from ankle surgery. Middleton’s absence has heightened the Bucks’ need for another playmaker who can alleviate the offensive pressure on Damian Lillard, especially since rookies like Delon Wright and Gary Trent Jr. haven’t made the impact the team expected. Neither managed to average more than 10 points even with increased playing time, leaving the Bucks looking for ways to revive their offense.

This is where Simmons could play a role. While he may not contribute much in scoring, Simmons could serve as a secondary playmaker off the bench, giving the Bucks depth and strength on defense. Simmons’ skill set fits Milwaukee’s needs, especially because he thrives in complementary roles that don’t require him to run the offense. Milwaukee’s bench has a net rating of -1.9, a metric that shows a team’s struggles when its reserves are on the floor. Simmons could bring the playmaking, defense and energy needed to improve the Bucks’ pace, especially since Milwaukee currently has the sixth-best pace in the league. As a bench player, he could balance out the Bucks’ rotation, providing defensive strength to counterbalance Bobby Portis’ scoring and potentially lift the Bucks out of their early slump.

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the few teams to benefit from a coaching change, as new head coach JJ Redick has breathed new life into their style of play. Redick’s proactive approach has energized Lakers fans as he can often be seen creating action plans and interacting with the team in crucial moments. The Lakers have remained competitive early in the season, although they recently lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns. Despite these setbacks, the team showed resilience and adaptability, especially after dealing with injuries to big men Jared Vanderbilt and Christian Wood.

Adding Ben Simmons could address several critical holes on the Lakers’ roster. Gabe Vincent has struggled to contribute off the bench, averaging just 3.4 points and 0.4 assists in 17.2 minutes. Simmons can play a backup point guard role, providing play off the bench when D’Angelo Russell is rested. While his scoring may not be significant, Simmons’ passing and basketball IQ could create opportunities for players like Dalton Knecht and Austin Reaves in shooting situations. Redick’s preference for pick-and-rolls centered around Anthony Davis could also suit Simmons, who has the athleticism and size to be an effective roller. Simmons’ role with the Lakers will allow him to focus on facilitating rather than scoring, which fits his natural style of play and could bring stability to the Lakers’ rotation.

As the trade deadline approaches, Simmons will have limited time to prove he can still make an impact. Whether he stays with the Warriors, Bucks, Lakers or another team, Simmons’ future will be determined by his ability to adapt and the specific role he will play. For a player who once had All-Star aspirations, this buyout could be Simmons’ chance to reclaim his position in the NBA.