SbB has learned Chris Broussard & Jon Barry won’t returm to ESPN’s NBA studio. Added to show: @sportsguy33 & Stan Van Gundy

— SPORTSbyBROOKS (@SPORTSbyBROOKS) September 11, 2012

In the latest sign that Bill Simmons is the most powerful man at ESPN, the columnist and man behind Grantland will reportedly join ESPN’s NBA studio show this season.

Simmons and former Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy would replace Chris Broussard and Jon Barry, according to Sports By Brooks.

However, ESPN couldn’t confirm the report when contacted on Tuesday by FishbowlLA.

“We are in the process of considering all assignments for both returning and potential new commentator roles. As we’ve said before, Stan is someone we’d be interested in exploring,” said ESPN spokesman Ben Cafardo. “For Bill,  same applies, we’re exploring the best ways to utilize all of our talent, including Bill, this NBA season.”

The addition of Simmons would be a great move by ESPN (despite his ties to Boston) because the man knows the game inside and out. Plus, he’s going to instantly attract a new, younger audience.

Van Gundy would be great if only to make things awkward for Dwight Howard — the new Los Angeles Lakers center who was blamed for the Orlando coach losing his job. Now they will work across the street from each other in Los Angeles.

It’s only a matter of time before they run into each other at the Yard House after a game.