Ben Simmons' tenure with the Brooklyn Nets has been a tumultuous ride, characterized by the excitement of his talents and the disappointment of his injuries. Over the past three seasons, Simmons has managed to play just 57 games. His back issues have largely overshadowed his time on the court, culminating in a microscopic partial discectomy in March aimed at alleviating a nerve impingement.
Despite these setbacks, Simmons appears to be on the cusp of a significant comeback. According to his agent, he has fully recovered from surgery and is ready to participate fully in the upcoming training camp. His rehabilitation is a crucial step for both his career and the Nets organization, poised to see if Simmons can return to the form that once made him one of the NBA's premier players.
Lingering Health Issues
Last season was particularly trying for Simmons, as he managed to play only 15 games, averaging a career-low six points per game. These numbers are a far cry from the performances that earned him a spot on one All-NBA team, three All-Star teams, and two All-Defense teams. In the 2020-21 season, he even finished 12th in MVP voting, a testament to his capabilities when healthy.
Simmons himself is optimistic about his return. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he remarked. This sentiment underscores the frustration and determination he feels as he works toward regaining his peak form. "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]," he added, highlighting the crux of his challenges over the last few seasons.
Financial and Team Dynamics
Simmons' return to form is not just a personal milestone but also a significant factor in the Nets' current plans. Entering the final year of his contract, Simmons is set to earn a hefty $40.3 million this season. This financial commitment adds a layer of urgency for both player and team. The Nets, however, find themselves in a peculiar position as they approach the new season with seemingly zero incentive to win games, a stance that may affect their roster strategies and playoff ambitions.
While the focus will undoubtedly be on Simmons' health and performance, the broader context involves an evaluation of his fit within the team's long-term plans. His successful comeback could shift the narrative for the Nets, who are navigating a rebuilding phase themselves. His defensive prowess, playmaking abilities, and overall basketball IQ are assets that can contribute significantly if he remains injury-free.
A Crucial Season Ahead
As the training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Simmons to see if he can reclaim the form that once made him one of the brightest stars in the league. The road ahead is challenging, but the rewards are substantial. For Simmons, it's a chance to rewrite the narrative of his career, one anchored in resilience and a rediscovery of form. For the Nets, it’s an opportunity to leverage his talents in a season of recalibration and future planning.
If Simmons can stay on the court and return to peak performance, he might just remind everyone why he was once considered a cornerstone talent. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he repeats, echoing his own belief in a redemption arc that could reignite both his career and the fortunes of the Brooklyn Nets.