NBA guard Ben Simmons has signed with the Los Angeles Clippers, joining a Western Conference contender after being released by the Brooklyn Nets. The move comes after the Nets bought out Simmons’ contract following his relegation to backup status this season. Simmons will join a lineup led by stars James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Norman Powell.
Simmons, 28, was due to be paid $40 million in the final year of his contract with the Nets. He had previously expressed interest from other teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers and Houston Rockets. The Clippers currently hold the No. 7 seed in the West and are in the play-in mix.
Despite his impressive rookie season and early years with the Philadelphia 76ers, Simmons has struggled to live up to expectations due to injuries and concerns over his mental approach. He was traded to the Nets from the Sixers in 2019 but failed to produce at the same level, averaging just 6.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game.
The Nets’ general manager, Sean Marks, acknowledged Simmons’ departure, stating that a mutually agreed buyout was necessary for Simmons to seek a fresh start. The Clippers will face the Nets on March 28 in their next matchup.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/ben-simmons-signs-with-clippers-after-contract-buyout-with-nets-184400234.html