After a 36-46 finish in 2024-25, the Suns have started reshaping their roster with some major moves.
They’ve parted ways with head coach Mike Budenholzer and brought in Jordan Ott, who served as an assistant coach for Cleveland last season.
In even bigger news, Phoenix traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets and bought out Bradley Beal’s contract. Beal quickly signed with the Clippers after becoming a free agent.
Now the Suns are looking to add a veteran ballhandler, and Ben Simmons appears to be on their radar.
What could Ben Simmons bring to the Suns?
NBA insider Marc Stein reports that Phoenix has already had discussions with the three-time All-Star.
Simmons has had quite a journey since being selected first overall by the 76ers in the 2016 NBA draft. He missed his entire rookie season with a foot fracture but bounced back to win Rookie of the Year in 2017-18, starting 81 games.
His career in Philadelphia started strong with three straight All-Star selections.
Things got complicated when Simmons requested a trade, citing health concerns. He sat out the entire 2021-22 season before being dealt to the Brooklyn Nets.
His Brooklyn tenure was underwhelming – just 90 games over three years with 69 starts. The Nets eventually bought out his contract last season, leading him to sign with the Clippers.
Now 29, Simmons is drawing interest from several teams looking for playmaking help.
The Suns need bench depth at point guard after losing Tyus Jones in free agency. They reportedly considered bringing back Chris Paul, but he’s expected to return to the Clippers instead.
Simmons wouldn’t replace Devin Booker, who’s set to be Phoenix’s starting point guard next season. Instead, he’d likely serve as a quality backup who could run the second unit.
At this stage of his career, Simmons would probably sign for either a mid-level exception or veteran’s minimum contract – making him a potentially low-risk, high-reward addition.
Phoenix isn’t alone in their interest, though. Stein reports the Knicks, Celtics, and Kings are all keeping tabs on the 6’11” playmaker with exceptional handles.
Where Simmons continues his NBA journey remains to be seen, but the Suns appear to be serious contenders for his services as they rebuild their roster for 2025-26.
