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Report: More details emerge regarding Ben Simmons injury, future

by:Austin Brezina•04/25/22•

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Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

New details emerged on Monday regarding the Brooklyn Nets and Ben Simmons as they continue to find a way to help him with his injury and return. The Nets traded superstar James Harden for Ben Simmons in February, hoping to find a solution to their team’s chemistry issues for a deep playoff run. As they prepare to avoid elimination by the Boston Celtics in a first-round sweep, Simmons has still not played a minute on the court for the Nets due to a back injury that has stalled his return to the floor.

Ben Simmons injury update

“Ben Simmons and CEO of Klutch Sports Rich Paul met with GM Sean Marks and Nets leadership today to discuss how they’ll continue to work through the physical and mental hurdles needed to get Simmons back on the court,” said ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. “Simmons reiterated desire to play for Nets and sides talked on how they’ll work together to try and get there. Both groups believe Simmons had two good weeks of physical ramp-up thru Sunday, but ultimately realized there are still mental and physical hurdles that need addressing.

“The Nets believe Simmons has been addressing both mental and physical areas in recent months, and recognize there’s more work to do.”

Simmons, a former LSU star for one season before being drafted first overall in the 2016 NBA Draft, has been the subject of major controversy throughout the entire season. Prior to the 2021-22 NBA season, Simmons made it clear that he wanted out of Philadelphia and withheld from practices and eventually games once the season began. Eventually, a good situation for both Philadelphia and Brooklyn emerged mid-way through the season where both teams had high profile players that were unhappy with their teams.

The Nets and 76ers completed the blockbuster trade, and optimism surrounded the Nets that they would be able to get Simmons to integrate with their already leading superstars Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant. Now, as April may end with Brooklyn leaving the playoffs in the first round, Simmons’ future with the team appears to be in doubt.