The Brooklyn Nets will have to navigate their upcoming games without the services of Ben Simmons due to a nerve issue. Simmons' agent, Bernie Lee, informed the New York Post's Brian Lewis that the player had recently undergone an MRI, which revealed nerve irritation on the lower left side of his body. As a result, Simmons will need to undergo rehab to resolve the issue and return to the court.
Lee clarified that this ailment is distinct from previous injuries Simmons has faced. He expressed confidence that with the appropriate rehabilitation, Simmons will be able to resume playing in the near future without any complications. Unlike previous setbacks, this particular problem does not necessitate surgery.
Brooklyn confirmed the news through an official statement, announcing that Simmons had undergone an MRI due to ongoing discomfort stemming from a left hip contusion. The evaluation revealed a nerve impingement in the lower left section of his back. Medical professionals will continue to provide treatment for both his hip and back, with an update on his status expected within a week.
Unfortunately, physical setbacks have become an all-too-familiar experience for Simmons and the Nets. The 27-year-old sat out his would-be rookie season in 2016-17 due to foot problems and missed a significant portion of the 2021-22 campaign because of a back injury. Furthermore, he has not played more than 58 games in a season since the 2018-19 one.
Simmons featured in 42 games for Brooklyn during the 2022-23 season and had participated in six games thus far in the 2023-24 season. The recurring injuries have undoubtedly hindered his ability to meet the high expectations that accompanied him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. While concerns about his shooting and offensive impact are also contributing factors, his lack of sustained health has prevented him from becoming a transformative player for the Nets.
Previously, Simmons showcased his superstar potential during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, earning three All-Star selections, two All-Defensive team appearances, and securing the NBA Rookie of the Year award in the 2017-18 season. However, these notable achievements have become increasingly infrequent.
So far this season, Simmons has been able to exert his influence on the game, exemplified by his averages of 6.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 6.7 assists in the six games he has played. This reinforces his ability to impact the game beyond scoring. Nonetheless, another injury setback has placed him on the sidelines once again, forcing him to miss crucial games for a Nets team aspiring to contend in the competitive Eastern Conference.
