Ben Simmons' journey in the NBA has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, a narrative that weaves through his tenure with the Brooklyn Nets over the past three seasons. Despite the challenges he's faced, particularly with persistent back injuries, Simmons appears poised for a resurgence this upcoming season.
Since joining the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons has managed to play only 57 games. Last season, his on-court appearances were sporadic, limited to just 15 games where he averaged a modest six points per game. The main culprit behind his limited playtime has been his troublesome back, which has plagued him with ongoing issues.
In an attempt to address the root of his problems, Simmons underwent a microscopic partial discectomy in March to alleviate a nerve impingement. According to his agent, he's now fully recovered from the surgery and is expected to participate fully in the Nets' training camp. This news brings a sense of optimism for both Simmons and the franchise.
Simmons himself is aware of the skepticism surrounding his abilities due to his injury history. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he stated. His confidence in his own potential remains unwavering. "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]," he added, hinting at his determination to make a strong comeback.
A Career of Highs
Despite his setbacks, Simmons' career accolades speak volumes about his talent. He has earned a spot on one All-NBA team, appeared in three All-Star games, and made two All-Defense teams. During the 2020-21 season, he even finished 12th in MVP voting, highlighting his impact when fully capable.
This season carries a significant weight for Simmons, not just in terms of performance but also financially. He is in the last year of his contract, set to make $40.3 million. The stakes are high, and Simmons is well aware of what's at play. His recovery and readiness to take on a full season could potentially redefine his career trajectory.
The Brooklyn Nets' Position
The Brooklyn Nets themselves find little incentive to push for wins this season. This dynamic puts Simmons in an intriguing position—while the team might not be vying for championship contention, his personal goals and aspirations could fuel a standout season. The balance between individual ambition and team strategy will be a storyline to watch as Simmons steps onto the court again.
Nets fans and critics alike will closely observe Simmons' performance in the upcoming training camp and the regular season. The narrative surrounding him has often been one of potential and glimpses of greatness, marred by physical setbacks. The opportunity to rewrite that narrative is now, and Simmons seems ready to grab it.
As the new season looms, the basketball world will wait with bated breath to see if Ben Simmons can consistently showcase the talent that once made him a household name. His journey from recovery to resurgence is a testament to resilience and the undeniable allure of a comeback story in the sports world.