Ben Simmons’ career with the Brooklyn Nets has been a rollercoaster ride mired by injuries and inconsistency. Having spent three seasons with the Nets, Simmons has only been able to participate in 57 games. Last season, he played a mere 15 games, averaging just six points per outing.
Despite these challenges, the narrative around Simmons is beginning to shift as he gears up for a more promising phase. Earlier this year, Simmons underwent a microscopic partial discectomy to address a nerve impingement that had been a significant source of his back problems. This procedure has been a turning point for him, and according to his agent, Simmons has fully recovered from the surgery. As a result, he is expected to be a full participant in the upcoming training camp.
The Road to Recovery
Simmons’ recent trials have not diminished his confidence in his abilities. "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy," Simmons said in a candid moment. He’s well aware of the perception that has evolved over recent seasons, but he remains resolute. "I can play basketball, and I'm pretty good, right? So for me, it's just being consistent with [staying healthy],” he added.
This renewed sense of optimism is critical, given the stakes. Simmons enters the final year of his contract, set to make $40.3 million. His journey with the Nets has been punctuated by moments of brilliance and periods of absence, leaving many to wonder what could have been had health not been an issue.
A Decorated Past
It’s easy to forget that Simmons is a player with notable accolades to his name. He has made one All-NBA team, three All-Star teams, and two All-Defense teams. His performance during the 2020-21 season was particularly impressive, finishing 12th in MVP voting. These facts underscore his potential when he is not sidelined by injuries.
The upcoming season will be crucial not just for Simmons individually, but also for the Brooklyn Nets. The team appears to have little incentive to win games this season, which might provide Simmons with the space and time he needs to regain his form without undue pressure.
Future Prospects
With training camp around the corner, all eyes will be on how Simmons integrates back into the team. His potential to make a significant impact remains unquestioned, but it hinges largely on his health. The Nets will be hoping that this offseason’s surgery marks the end of Simmons’ injury woes and the beginning of a resurgence.
For fans and analysts alike, Simmons' upcoming performances will be under the microscope. If healthy, he has the tools to remind everyone of his skill set and why he was once considered one of the most promising young talents in the NBA. As Simmons himself stated, "I think people forget me as a player when I'm healthy." Whether he can stay consistent in his health and performance remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the journey ahead will be closely watched.