Following a contract buyout agreement with the Brooklyn Nets, it was revealed Saturday afternoon that three-time All-Star and former All-NBA player Ben Simmons will be signing with the Los Angeles Clippers.
“Breaking: Three-time NBA All-Star Ben Simmons plans to join the Los Angeles Clippers after passing waivers, according to league sources who informed ESPN,” tweeted ESPN’s Shams Charania on Saturday.
At 28 years old, the ex-No. 1 overall selection in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers has experienced a turbulent few seasons in the league.
Following his trade to the Nets from the 76ers in 2022, where he was exchanged for former MVP James Harden, Simmons played three seasons with Brooklyn from 2022-2025.
While with the Nets, Simmons averaged 6.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.0 steals over 90 games for the organization.
During his initial four seasons with the 76ers, Simmons emerged as one of the NBA’s top up-and-coming talents.
The 6-foot-10 point guard earned Rookie of the Year accolades in 2017-18, then made three straight All-Star Game appearances, received All-NBA Third Team recognition, and placed second in Defensive Player of the Year voting.
Now shifting to the Clippers, Simmons aims to assist a collection of talented veterans who have been displaced, alongside Harden, the star shooting guard he was traded for in a deal three years ago at the trade deadline.
Joining forces with defensive icon Kawhi Leonard, the two-time All-Defensive Team pick Simmons will strive to guide one of the league’s top units on that side of the court.