Ben Simmons' journey with the Brooklyn Nets has been anything but smooth. Entering his fourth season with the team, Simmons has faced a myriad of challenges that have limited his ability to stay on the court. In his tenure with the Nets, Simmons has played a total of just 57 games, a number significantly impacted by persistent back injuries. Last season was particularly difficult, as he was able to participate in only 15 games, averaging six points per game—a far cry from the form that once made him one of the league's standout players.
Injury Woes and Surgery
The primary culprit behind Simmons' struggles has been his back. Last season, these issues reached a tipping point, necessitating a microscopic partial discectomy in March to alleviate a nerve impingement. This surgery was crucial for Simmons, who had been grappling with immense physical discomfort that undoubtedly affected his performance on the court. According to his agent, Simmons has fully recovered from the surgery, a development that brings a glimmer of hope both for him and the Nets.
"I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," Simmons recently remarked. His statement underscores a deep-seated belief in his abilities, a belief that has been overshadowed by a series of unfortunate events.
Fresh Start and High Hopes
With his recovery complete, Simmons is expected to participate fully in the upcoming training camp, a critical period for him to regain his form and rebuild his confidence. The Nets are looking to Simmons to bring back his All-Star caliber performance. After all, his resume speaks volumes: one All-NBA team, three All-Star selections, and two All-Defense teams. Not to mention, during the 2020-21 season, he finished 12th in MVP voting, a testament to his versatility and impact when healthy.
Simmons himself seems eager to put the past behind him and focus on what he can achieve moving forward. "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]," he noted. Consistency in health will be key for Simmons to revive a career that once had him pegged as one of the NBA's brightest talents.
Financial Stakes
From a financial perspective, this season holds significant weight for Simmons. He is in the last year of his contract, a deal that will see him earn $40.3 million this season. His performance this year will likely play a crucial role in determining his future in the NBA, be it with the Nets or another franchise. For a player with such an impressive skill set, this season could serve as a pivotal point in securing his long-term career.
Nets' Outlook
Interestingly, the Brooklyn Nets as a franchise have zero incentive to win games this season, which could be a double-edged sword for Simmons. On one hand, it might offer him a less pressured environment to find his rhythm and gradually return to peak performance. On the other hand, the lack of competitive drive could affect the overall team dynamics and morale, potentially impacting individual performances.
In conclusion, Ben Simmons is at a crossroads. Fully recovered from his surgery and with a renewed focus on staying healthy, he has the opportunity to remind everyone just how impactful he can be on the court. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," Simmons reiterated, and this season will be his chance to prove that statement true. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but for Simmons, it is also ripe with opportunity.
