Ben Simmons Dispels Retirement Rumors, Remains Free Agent Seeking NBA Deal

Ben Simmons has publicly refuted recent media speculation about his potential retirement, confirming he is not stepping away from the NBA and remains actively seeking a contract for the upcoming season. The free agent guard previously engaged in discussions with both the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics, though no deals materialized; the Knicks subsequently signed Landry Shamet and Malcom Brogdon, indicating Simmons is no longer in their plans. While Simmons may be seeking more than the veteran minimum ($3.2 million), it's anticipated any offers will likely be for the minimum and potentially not fully guaranteed. His most recent NBA stint involved 18 games with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he played a bench role focusing on defense and offense initiation, averaging 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 16.4 minutes, though he was excluded from their playoff rotation. Teams may consider him for a similar bench role, with offers more likely to emerge once training camps begin or deeper into the season as needs arise.