Ben Simmons made a promising start to his NBA career, overcoming a foot injury that sidelined him during his first year. He returned with vigor in the 2017-18 season, posting impressive averages of 15.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, earning the Rookie of the Year title. His performance only improved the following seasons, culminating in All-Star selections in 2019, 2020, and 2021. However, the narrative began to change drastically post-2021. A recurring back injury became a significant obstacle, sidelining him for the entire 2021-22 season and limiting his playtime severely in the subsequent years. Over the next two seasons, Simmons managed only 57 games, starting in 45 of them.
A Chronic Issue Casts a Long Shadow
During a recent game against the Cleveland Cavaliers—a 130-101 loss for the Brooklyn Nets—Simmons’ struggle was palpable. Starting strong, he soon looked uncomfortable, turning the ball over six times and scoring a mere 10 points. This performance has become a familiar sight for fans, with many attributing his decline to ongoing back problems. Reddit users, known for their vocal and often insightful commentary, have pointed out how serious back injuries, like Simmons’, can affect not only physical performance but mental health as well. One user empathized, noting, “His back is completely done and, as someone with chronic back pain, I can tell you that will do a number on your mental health as well.” Another lamented the stark difference in his play pre and post-injury, saying, “Yeah that back injury destroyed him. People can laugh and all that but the difference just before and after is insane (and depressing).”
Teammates and Fans Hold Hope
Despite the setbacks, Simmons’ situation has a silver lining with the support from his teammates and some fans who recognize the severity of his condition. As the new season approached, Dorian Finney-Smith of the Brooklyn Nets shared an optimistic outlook with the New York Post: “People don’t know how healthy Ben [Simmons] is going to be. But we’ve been seeing him for the last four weeks and he looks great. So, if bro gets back on the court, I feel like it’s gonna help our team a lot, and we’re going to shake the NBA.” Currently, Simmons has participated in 19 of the team’s 26 games, averaging 5.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 6.5 assists over 23.5 minutes per game. While these numbers are a dip from his peak performance years, they show a player still committed to contributing to his team amidst physical challenges.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, the NBA community watches closely. Will Simmons’ health improvements continue, offering him a chance to return to his All-Star form, or will his chronic issues dictate a different path? Only time will tell, but for now, Simmons remains a figure of resilience in the face of relentless adversity, embodying the spirit of professional sportsmanship and determination.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.