Over the past three seasons, Ben Simmons' journey with the Brooklyn Nets has been a turbulent one. Plagued by persistent back injuries, the once formidable player has struggled to maintain his place on the court. Playing only 57 games in total with the Nets, Simmons' participation last season was limited to a mere 15 games, a stark contrast to the standard he set earlier in his career.
Despite the setbacks, Simmons remains a player of considerable talent and potential. His resume speaks volumes—one All-NBA team, three All-Star team inclusions, and two All-Defense team honors. Notably, in the 2020-21 season, he finished 12th in MVP voting, underscoring his capabilities when healthy.
The physical toll on Simmons was evident, as he averaged just six points per game last season. The severity of his back issues became clear when he underwent a microscopic partial discectomy in March, aiming to alleviate a nerve impingement. In light of his surgery, many speculated about his future in the league and his ability to perform at the highest level once again.
However, there is a silver lining for Simmons and the Nets. Simmons' agent recently confirmed that he has fully recovered from the surgery. This news reinvigorates hope not just for the Nets, but for fans who have long admired Simmons' prowess on the court. With the upcoming season on the horizon, Simmons is expected to participate fully in the training camp, marking a crucial step in his return to form.
Simmons himself remains optimistic. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he remarked, emphasizing the often-overlooked aspects of his skillset and contributions. His confidence is palpable as he asserts, "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So, for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]."
While Simmons' health and readiness will be a focal point in the coming months, another layer of intrigue surrounds his contractual situation. Entering the last year of his contract, Simmons stands to make a substantial $40.3 million this season. This financial figure, while significant, also places a degree of pressure on his performance and the decisions the Nets might make regarding his future with the team.
Interestingly, the Brooklyn Nets, as an organization, have zero incentive to win games this season. This unusual stance could impact team dynamics and strategies, adding another dimension to Simmons' return and role within the squad.
As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Simmons. The anticipation is palpable, with fans and analysts alike eager to see if he can reclaim his position as a dominant force in the NBA. His ability to stay healthy and perform consistently will be critical, not only for his career trajectory but also for the Nets' prospects in the upcoming season.
While his recent track record may cause skepticism, those who have followed Simmons' career understand the depth of his potential. If he can remain injury-free and recapture his former brilliance, Simmons could once again remind the basketball world of his talent, just as he hopes. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he reiterates, a statement that could very well set the tone for his comeback season.