Nets' Ben Simmons a Player to Watch on the Buyout Market

Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons is a player to watch as a buyout candidate before the trade deadline.

Dec 23, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons (10) looks on against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images / Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Brooklyn Nets could end up with a completely different roster after the Feb. 6 trade deadline. With multiple players up on the market, playoff teams will be inquiring or have already inquired about veterans that could add depth and fix holes in their systems.

However, the trade market isn't the only place to watch for Nets players. Point guard Ben Simmons is a player to watch on the buyout market, per Evan Sidery of Forbes.

Ben Simmons is a player teams will be monitoring as a buyout candidate from the Nets before the trade deadline.

Simmons holds no trade value on a massive $40.4 million expiring contract, but there’s intrigue for a potential buyout to join a contender on the veteran’s minimum. pic.twitter.com/8LBjZUdyKL

— Evan Sidery (@esidery) December 24, 2024

Simmons has taken over the starting job at the one after Dennis Schroder was traded to the Golden State Warriors. Since taking over the job on Dec. 16, he's been averaging 10.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 8.5 assists, and 1.3 steals.

6-foot-10 former All-Star is making $40.3 million this season, which makes it tough for teams to trade for him. The ideal scenario would be for Brooklyn to buy out his contract, which would then make him a free agent able to sign a veteran's minimum with a contender.

While known for his inability to shoot outside of the paint and score aggressively, Simmons has been an efficient player this season. He's shooting 57.5% from the field this season and has consistently played good defense on the other end. On top of this, he's still a great passer and rebounder, averaging 5.3 boards and 6.8 assists per game this season.

While it wouldn't warrant a return, the Nets could be inclined to buy out Simmons to open up a roster spot. It would mean Brooklyn could take back another young player in a deal for one of the other veterans on the trade block. At this point, the 28-year-old's services, while useful, are no longer needed due to the rebuild.

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