© Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Ben Simmons participates in pre-game workouts with the rest of the Nets
Ben Simmons started the year strong as the Nets’ primary playmaker, but after six games, he suffered a nerve impingement in his lower back. That happened in early November and has been on the injury report fixture ever since.
Ben is finally working out with the team in the pre-game shootaround, showcasing solid recovery. This is a massive step in the right direction for the Nets because getting the Aussie guard back will give them a much-needed boost.
The timeline for Ben’s return to the squad
The Nets opted for Simmons to join the current road trip because they see him entering the final stage of his return progress. This ramp-up process can include five-on-five sessions, which will be monumental since it means he’s extremely close to returning.
Simmons himself said there is no timeline for his return, but the Nets announced in late December that Ben will be re-evaluated in two weeks. Those two weeks have passed, and while there is no official word about his return yet, there are some encouraging moments with the practice sessions happening more often.
The Nets need him to return as soon as possible
A Simmons return will be huge for the Nets because the team needs a player who can both be a playmaker and a defender. Brooklyn’s scoring has plateaued because the team is reliant on isolation plays from Mikal Bridges and Cameron Thomas.
Having Ben back in the starting lineup will mean his teammates will get higher-quality shots because he will create open looks in transition with his fast-paced style. That playstyle worked early in the season, but Simmons’ injury threw a wrench in the team’s plans.
Since the LSU product got sidelined, the Nets have been in a free fall down the standings. Getting him back healthy is a positive shift in Brooklyn’s fortunes after the team went through multiple losing streaks.
