The Golden State Warriors, with only nine players currently under contract for the upcoming season, are at a standstill in free agency. The unresolved Jonathan Kuminga situation looms large, and despite rumors of potential additions like Al Horford or De’Anthony Melton, the Warriors remain one of the most intriguing teams to watch. With roster spots still open, speculation is rife about who might fill them, and one name keeps surfacing: former 3x All-Star Ben Simmons.
Simmons as a Warrior? The Rumor That Won’t Die
Ben Simmons, an unrestricted free agent, has been repeatedly linked to Golden State this offseason. Despite no confirmed mutual interest, the 28-year-old Australian continues to be floated as a potential fit. Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report recently listed the Warriors as a possible landing spot, suggesting Simmons could serve as a 6’10” ball-handler, playmaker, and elite defender behind Draymond Green. Earlier, Ben Stinar of Sports Illustrated and Monte Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area also proposed the move, highlighting Simmons as a target before free agency even began.
However, Simmons’ recent performance raises red flags. Last season with the L.A. Clippers, he averaged a meager 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in just 16.4 minutes per game. The Clippers have shown no interest in re-signing him, and aside from fleeting mentions of the New York Knicks and Toronto Raptors, no other teams appear to be in the race. According to Law Murray of The Athletic, Simmons is reportedly seeking more than a minimum contract—a bold ask given his diminished production and the shrinking pool of free-agency dollars.
Why the Warriors? Size and Defense, but at a Cost
The case for Simmons in Golden State hinges on his defensive versatility and playmaking, traits that mirror Draymond Green’s skill set. With Green’s 35-year-old body showing signs of wear from a storied career, a backup like Simmons could theoretically ease the load during the regular season. His 6’10” frame adds much-needed size to a Warriors roster that often lacks height, provided they surround him with shooters to offset his nonexistent scoring threat.
But the fit is far from perfect. Simmons and Green are too similar to share the court effectively, meaning Simmons would likely be relegated to limited minutes when Green is healthy. If the Warriors retain Kuminga, the rotation becomes even trickier. For a player reportedly looking to revive his career, a bench role in a crowded frontcourt might not be appealing.
A Risky Gamble for a Fading Star
The Warriors’ interest in Simmons, if genuine, feels like a head-scratcher. A former All-Star with undeniable talent, Simmons has struggled to stay on the court and produce consistently. His reluctance to shoot and high salary expectations further complicate his value. Golden State’s front office must weigh whether a low-risk, high-reward signing could unlock Simmons’ potential or simply clog an already complex roster puzzle.