As the new NBA season approaches, all eyes are on Ben Simmons as he prepares to reestablish himself in the league. Simmons, who has played with the Brooklyn Nets for three seasons, has been a figure of intrigue and potential. However, his tenure with the Nets has been marred by persistent back injuries, limiting his appearances and impact on the court.
Despite these setbacks, there is a renewed sense of optimism surrounding Simmons. After undergoing a microscopic partial discectomy in March to alleviate a nerve impingement, Simmons appears to be ready to rejuvenate his career. His agent confirmed that he has fully recovered from the surgery, setting the stage for a potentially resurgent season.
Struggles and Comeback
Last season was particularly challenging for Simmons. He played only 15 games and averaged six points per game, a far cry from his peak performance years. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," Simmons remarked, underscoring the frustration of being sidelined by injuries.
Now, Simmons is expected to participate fully in training camp. This represents not just a physical recovery, but a mental and emotional reset. He acknowledges the importance of maintaining his health to stay consistent. "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]," he stated, hinting at a determined mindset going into the new season.
An Impressive Resume
Simmons' career accolades are a testament to his talent. He has made one All-NBA team, been named to three All-Star teams, and earned two All-Defense team honors. During the 2020-21 season, he finished 12th in MVP voting, highlighting his significance when in top form.
As Simmons enters the last year of his contract, with a substantial $40.3 million salary for the season, the stakes are high. This is a pivotal season, not just for Simmons, but for his future in the league. The Brooklyn Nets, however, do not seem to have a significant incentive to win games this season, adding another layer of complexity to his situation.
The Road Ahead
Simmons' journey with the Nets thus far has been a rollercoaster, marked by flashes of brilliance amidst adversity. His performance this season will be crucial in determining his next career steps. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he reiterated, hoping to remind everyone of his capabilities on the court.
As the training camp unfolds and the season draws near, the basketball world awaits to see which version of Ben Simmons will take the floor. Whether he can return to his All-NBA form or continues to struggle with health issues will significantly impact his and the Nets' immediate future.
One thing is for certain—Ben Simmons is resolute in his quest to reclaim his place among the NBA's elite. His journey this season will be one of the most intriguing storylines to follow, as he aims to prove that he can indeed be the player many remember when healthy.