Ben Simmons signs with LA Clippers after Brooklyn Nets NBA release

The Los Angeles Clippers have announced the signing of Ben Simmons. This comes two days after the Brooklyn Nets agreed to a buyout with the Australian point guard, subsequently waiving him.

The Clippers have not disclosed the specific terms of the agreement. According to the agreement, Simmons will join forces with fellow Australian player Patty Mills, adding to the team's international presence.

Simmons, 28, had one season remaining on the five-year contract he signed with the Nets. His three-year stint with the Nets was plagued by injuries, ultimately leading to his release. A three-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, Simmons joined the Nets in February 2022 as part of a five-player trade that sent James Harden to the Philadelphia 76ers.

Notably, Harden is currently playing for the Clippers, having been traded to them by the 76ers in 2023. During his time with the Nets, Simmons played in 90 games (starting 69), averaging 6.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists in 25.4 minutes per game. This season, he appeared in 33 games, showcasing his availability despite past setbacks.

Simmons' statistics with the Nets were significantly lower than his performance during his time with the 76ers. The 76ers selected him with the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. In 275 games with the 76ers, he averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists. Simmons missed two full seasons with the 76ers due to injuries and a refusal to play, with back issues consistently impacting his career.