Why the Brooklyn Nets could say yes:
Yes, the Nets received Simmons in the James Harden trade but with Simmons not even returning in the NBA Playoffs last season, Brooklyn may look to pivot and get a player that is better suited to be third banana on the team. Plus, this trade would also add depth to Brooklyn’s roster, which is much needed.
Simmons is also a Klutch Sports client, which is important to monitor. Simmons has had no problem demanding what he wants in the past and if there is any inkling that he can team up with LeBron in Los Angeles then he could help them make their decision.
The Nets get two players for the price of one that they otherwise would not be able to move. Randle was disappointing last season but he can still be a very over-qualified third-best player on a contending team. Plus, Fournier adds shooting to the team that is always nice on a contender.
Why the New York Knicks could say yes:
This is all about getting cap space for next offseason and building around R.J. Barrett. The success during the 2020-21 season was an illusion and it is clear that Randle is not really suited to be the best guy on a contending team.
If you are the Knicks you have to ask yourself: would you rather have a ceiling of 48-44 and a first-round exit with Randle and Fournier for multiple seasons or would you rather pick up two first-round picks and get cap space for next summer and end up finishing around the same record-wise next season anyway?
The second route is obviously the better route for the long-term implications for the team. The Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets are contending teams and that is why they don’t want Westbrook. The Knicks, meanwhile, are not and can absorb the contract and actually benefit from it.