Ben Simmons, a former No. 1 draft pick, officially signed a deal with the Clippers, the team announced on Monday. Per team policy, the terms of the agreement were not released.
Simmons cleared waivers over the weekend after Brooklyn Nets reached a buyout deal that made him a free agent after three seasons. The three-time All-Star played 33 games (24 starts) for the Nets this season, averaging 6.2 points, 5.2 rebounds and a team-leading 6.9 assists in 25 minutes per game. He shot 54.7% (93 for 170) from the field and scored in double figures eight times.
The 2018 NBA Rookie of the Year has not been as effective in recent years because of a chronic nerve issue in his back. At 28, he is still seen as a versatile defender and playmaker who can give the Clippers depth at a number of positions.
Simmons is a two-time All-Defensive honoree (2020-21) and an All-NBA third team selection in 2020. He was voted as the league’s top rookie in 2017-18 after posting 12 triple-doubles, the second most by a rookie in league history.