Ben Simmons' time with the Brooklyn Nets has been a challenging journey marked by both promise and setbacks. Over three seasons, Simmons has played just 57 games, a statistic that underscores his struggle with persistent back injuries. Last season was particularly tough, with Simmons appearing in only 15 games and averaging a modest six points per game.
Despite these hurdles, there's optimism surrounding Simmons' return to full health. His agent has confirmed that he has fully recovered from a microscopic partial discectomy performed in March, aimed at alleviating a nerve impingement. This welcome news paves the way for Simmons to participate fully in the upcoming training camp.
Simmons' Journey and Achievements
While recent seasons have been rocky, it's essential to remember Simmons' capabilities as a player when he's at his best. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," Simmons himself noted. Indeed, his career achievements speak volumes. Simmons has been named to one All-NBA team, three All-Star teams, and two All-Defense teams. His standout performance in the 2020-21 season saw him finish 12th in MVP voting, a testament to his impact on the court when in peak condition.
The question now lies in whether Simmons can rediscover this form. He expressed confidence in his ability, stating, "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]." For the Nets and their fans, consistent health and performance from Simmons could be a game-changer.
The Financial and Team Landscape
As Simmons heads into the last year of his contract, the financial stakes are high. He is set to earn $40.3 million this season, a substantial figure that reflects both his past achievements and future potential. However, the Brooklyn Nets find themselves in a peculiar situation—with zero incentive to win games this season. This dynamic could influence how Simmons is utilized and the strategic decisions the franchise makes in the coming months.
The backdrop of Simmons' return is a team that, without significant competitive ambitions this season, might focus on development and future planning. This could provide Simmons with a platform to gradually build his form without the immediate pressures of a playoff push.
A Player Remembering His Roots
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Simmons integrates back into the team and whether he can reclaim his place as one of the standout players in the league. His determination to remind everyone of his talent is palpable. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he reiterated, signaling a personal drive to prove himself once more.
In closing, Ben Simmons' journey with the Brooklyn Nets has been far from easy, marred by injuries and limited playtime. However, with his recovery now complete and a full participation in training camp on the horizon, there's a renewed sense of hope. If Simmons can stay healthy and consistent, as he aims to do, he could once again become a central figure not just for the Nets, but in the broader NBA landscape.