After experiencing a nerve impingement in early November, Ben Simmons did not have an estimated return date. Ben has made good progress in his recuperation over the last two months, and he is getting close to rejoining the Brooklyn Nets team after a long absence.
According to reports, Simmons’ return is close, with a strong probability that he will play in the Nets’ January 29 game against the Utah Jazz at Barclays Center. His inclusion in the lineup will be noteworthy given how much Coach Jacque Vaughn’s team has transformed since November.
After practicing with the Brooklyn Nets’ G League team this weekend, there’s optimism that Ben Simmons could return as soon as Monday vs. the Utah Jazz, sources tell ESPN. Simmons has been out with a lower back nerve impingement since November 6. pic.twitter.com/QRh7h3HcO0
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 25, 2024
He is still progressing. It’s great to see him get the chance to play ‘Stay Ready’ today. “He will hopefully play for Long Island, which will be another step forward in getting some more lively bodies around him,” Coach JV stated ahead of the Nets’ game against Minnesota. “If we continue to have no setbacks, which has been the case so far, hopefully, we do see him next week.” Ben’s return will be historic in Brooklyn.
The Nets have missed Ben’s playmaking, especially given how nicely he fits into the squad. Spencer Dinwiddie is the designated starter in Simmons’ absence, so they play a little slower because the experienced guard is a more methodical player.
Ben Simmons’ games played throughout his career 😳
(via @ESPNNBA) pic.twitter.com/zUH5FFg2Uu
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 20, 2024
Coach JV has Simmons, who enjoys running in transition. Before the season began, the coaching staff was adamant that Brooklyn play a fast-paced game. That worked early in the season, when Ben rebounded the ball and quickly accelerated the play.
Dennis Smith Jr. has attempted to do so in brief but productive spurts. With Ben’s return, Brooklyn will have great defense, playmaking, and the size it needs to get Cameron Thomas back in the starting lineup. Another chance for the playoffs.
Ben Simmons playing next to Cam Thomas and setting good screens for him starting Monday, I’m 100% on board.
Cam Thomas played his best basketball next to Ben. https://t.co/S5grjm9y8a
— Brooklyn Netcast (@BrooklynNetcast) January 25, 2024
Ben missing the most of the season has dealt a significant blow to the Nets’ playoff hopes. They are out of the playoff picture, but the Australian guard has the potential to turn things around for the squad. His performance on both sides of the floor will benefit the entire team since an outstanding playmaker like Simmons will make everyone’s job simpler.
Of course, there are some concerns about Ben’s injury history, but his early-season performance was encouraging for Brooklyn. If he can restore that level of performance, the Nets will be a difficult matchup for any team with a more balanced roster.
