Clippers Sign Simmons, Strengthening Their Roster Amid Playoff Push

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — The Los Angeles Clippers have added former No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons to their roster, hoping to bolster their chances in the tight Western Conference playoff race. The announcement came Monday, shortly after Simmons agreed to a buyout with the Brooklyn Nets.

Simmons, 28, struggled to maintain his health and performance in his 2 1/2 season stint with the Nets, but his versatility and defensive prowess could prove essential for the Clippers in the latter part of the season. The Clippers are currently in seventh place in the Western Conference standings.

Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank acknowledged that while the team had anticipated Kawhi Leonard’s return as their biggest move before the trade deadline, Simmons’ signing has the potential to strengthen their bench and overall depth. ‘We believe Ben’s high basketball IQ and defensive skills are exactly what we need as we approach the playoffs,’ said Frank.

In his last season with Brooklyn, Simmons averaged 6.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists over 42 games. His departure comes after an injury-plagued tenure, which has raised questions about his long-term prospects in the league.

‘I am excited to join a veteran team and contribute to a playoff run,’ Simmons stated during the signing announcement. ‘I am looking forward to playing alongside great talents like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.’

With Leonard, Harden, and now Simmons, the Clippers are looking to increase their competitiveness as the playoffs approach, aiming to build continuity and chemistry within the new lineup. Simmons is expected to have a significant role, particularly defensively, where his height and agility can disrupt opposing offenses.

This move follows a series of leadership adjustments and player transactions that the Clippers have made in recent months. Frank expressed optimism about the team’s future. ‘We have a solid core, and we believe these additions will help us compete at the highest level,’ he said.

As the Clippers gear up for the final months of the regular season, all eyes will be on how quickly Simmons can integrate into the team’s system and whether he can regain his form.