Ben Simmons Ready to Reclaim Elite Status After Injury-Plagued Seasons
In three seasons with the Brooklyn Nets, Ben Simmons has been more of a ghostly presence than a fixture on the court. With only 57 games under his belt, his journey has been riddled with back injuries. Last season was particularly challenging for Simmons, as he managed just 15 appearances, averaging a mere six points per game. A persistent back ailment led to a microscopic partial discectomy in March to alleviate a nerve impingement. However, the upcoming season paints a more hopeful picture for the former All-Star.
Simmons' agent recently confirmed that his client has fully recovered from the surgery and is expected to participate fully in training camp. This news comes as a significant relief to both Simmons and the Nets, especially given the tumultuous period he has endured. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," Simmons remarked during the Nets media day. "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy]."
A Career of Highs and Lows
Ben Simmons boasts an impressive resume for a player still in the prime of his career. He has made one All-NBA team, three All-Star teams, and two All-Defense teams. In the 2020-21 season, he finished 12th in MVP voting, highlighting his potential to be among the game's elite. Yet, these accolades seem like distant memories amid his recent struggles.
The Nets are cautiously optimistic about Simmons' upcoming season. With a fully recovered Simmons, the team can potentially see glimpses of the player who once dominated both ends of the court. His ability to facilitate the offense, lock down key defenders, and contribute significantly on the scoreboard makes him a valuable asset when healthy.
Financial Stakes and Motivations
Adding to the narrative are the financial stakes. Simmons is in the last year of his contract and will make a whopping $40.3 million this season. Given his inconsistent availability and performance, this season is a critical juncture in his career. He has every incentive to prove that he can stay healthy and return to the form that once had him compared to some of the best in the league.
However, the team dynamics offer a complex backdrop. The Nets have zero incentive to win games this season, potentially opting for a developmental approach rather than pushing for postseason success. This could mean that while Simmons aims to reassert his dominance, the team might not be in a position to capitalize fully on his potential resurgence.
A Man on a Mission
At media day, Simmons exuded confidence and determination. He presented himself as a man on a mission, ready to reclaim his status among basketball's elite. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," he reiterated, emphasizing the importance of consistency in maintaining his health.
For Simmons, this season is about more than just numbers and accolades. It’s a chance to remind everyone of his capabilities and silence the doubters. It's also a personal journey of resilience and redemption, aiming to prove that the adversities he faced were merely temporary setbacks.
The Road Ahead
As the new season looms, all eyes will be on Ben Simmons. His journey with the Brooklyn Nets has been turbulent, but the narrative can shift dramatically if he manages to stay healthy and perform at the high level he is capable of. The stakes are high, both financially and personally, but Simmons seems poised to meet the challenge head-on.
Whether or not the Nets have playoff aspirations this season, Ben Simmons' quest to prove himself will be one of the most compelling storylines to follow. For a player who has experienced the highs of All-Star selections and the lows of debilitating injuries, this season is a defining chapter in his career. And as Simmons rightly pointed out, when healthy, he is indeed "pretty good."