Ben Simmons' tenure with the Brooklyn Nets has been a turbulent one marked by injuries and limited playtime. Over the course of three seasons, Simmons has seen action in just 57 games, a number severely hampered by persistent back issues. Last season was particularly challenging, as he managed to participate in only 15 games and posted an average of six points per game.
Despite these setbacks, the tide seems to be turning for the versatile all-around player. Simmons underwent a microscopic partial discectomy in March to address a nerve impingement, a procedure aimed at alleviating his chronic back pain. Encouraging developments followed, with his agent confirming that Simmons has fully recovered from the surgery. This clears the way for him to participate fully in the upcoming training camp.
A Career Interrupted
Simmons’ first years in the NBA were promising. He managed to build an impressive resume, making one All-NBA team, three All-Star teams, and two All-Defense teams. His best season came in 2020-21 when he finished 12th in MVP voting. However, since joining the Nets, his career has been a constant struggle with injuries, derailing what once appeared to be an upward trajectory.
The player himself acknowledges his tumultuous journey. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," Simmons said. His confidence in his abilities remains unshaken even through these periods of adversity. "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]."
The Stakes This Season
The forthcoming season is critical for Simmons on multiple fronts. Not only is he returning from significant surgery, but he is also in the last year of his current contract. Financially, it's a high-stakes season as well, with Simmons set to earn $40.3 million. Both he and the Nets will be closely watched to see if he can recapture the form that made him a multi-time All-Star.
As Simmons braces for what he hopes will be a comeback season, the Brooklyn Nets find themselves in a peculiar position. The team has zero incentive to win games this season, creating an environment where Simmons can focus on regaining his health and rhythm without the additional pressure of a playoff push.
His return to full participation in training camp will be the first step in measuring where he stands physically and mentally. There is no underestimating the value a healthy Ben Simmons brings to the court. His ability to impact the game in various facets - scoring, rebounding, playmaking, and defense - makes him a unique asset for any team. If he can stay on the floor, the Nets might just find themselves the unexpected beneficiaries of his comeback story.
For now, all eyes will be trained on Brooklyn's training camp as Simmons embarks on this pivotal chapter in his career. He'll have the opportunity to remind everyone just who he is as a player. And as he aptly put it, “I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy.” This season, perhaps, will serve as a potent reminder.