Overview

• Multiple reports cite the New York Post in stating Ben Simmons is questioning whether to play this season, leaving his free agency unresolved.
• The Knicks are keeping one veteran-minimum slot open and have Landry Shamet positioned as a fallback while they await clarity.
• Sacramento remains a primary competitor and, with more tax flexibility, could offer slightly above the veteran minimum.
• New York is roughly $3.7 million under the second apron after using the taxpayer midlevel on Guerschon Yabusele, limiting additions to a minimum deal.
• Analysts had projected a Knicks fit on a minimum contract, but health concerns, poor recent production, and Simmons’ retirement consideration have stalled movement.