Following the conclusion of the 2025 NBA trade deadline, Brooklyn Nets forward Ben Simmons and the team are reportedly exploring a contract buyout, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Charania further suggested that the Los Angeles Clippers and the Cleveland Cavaliers may be potential landing spots for Simmons should he become a free agent.
Los Angeles Clippers in the Buyout Market For Ben Simmons
Following ESPN’s Brian Windhorst’s earlier report naming the Cavaliers and the Houston Rockets as potential suitors, Ben Simmons and the Brooklyn Nets are exploring a contract buyout.
Simmons, who is currently in the final year of a five-year, $177.2 million extension signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, is earning a substantial $40.3 million this season.
The Nets acquired Simmons from the 76ers prior to the 2022 trade deadline in a blockbuster deal that sent James Harden, Paul Millsap, and two future first-round picks to Philadelphia. However, the Simmons era in Brooklyn has been marked by inconsistency and challenges, falling short of expectations.
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s YouTube Channel
The Clippers’ moves just before the NBA trade deadline seemed to be all focused on creating more cap space and roster room.
The Clippers’ acquisition of Bogdan Bogdanovic from the Atlanta Hawks serves multiple strategic objectives. By trading two players for one, they create roster flexibility, enhancing their ability to pursue potential opportunities in the buyout market or make other roster adjustments as needed.
Furthermore, this trade provides some financial flexibility. Moving Terance Mann, whose contract extends through the 2027-28 season, allows the Clippers to shed future salary obligations. While Bogdanovic’s contract includes a player option for the 2026-27 season, his current salary for the 2024-25 season ($16.02 million) is more manageable compared to Mann’s long-term commitment.