Ben Simmons: A Rebuilt Star Ready to Lead the Brooklyn Nets
Ben Simmons, once a beacon of promise in the NBA, is stepping back into the spotlight with renewed vigor. After a tumultuous period marked by injuries and trade rumors, Simmons believes he is fully rebuilt and ready to contribute significantly to the Brooklyn Nets as they embark on a new chapter of reconstruction.
A New Mindset
At the Nets’ practice facility in Brooklyn, Simmons shared his philosophy on improvement: “It’s just about getting better every day.” This mantra reflects not only his personal journey but also the collective mindset of the team as they navigate a challenging season ahead. With a guaranteed $57 million in the final year of his $255 million contract, Simmons is poised to make a substantial impact, both on and off the court.
Simmons emphasized the importance of daily progress, stating, “For us, that’s coming in each day and getting better. And that’s going to show up in the wins. It’s going to show up in the losses. That takes time.” This acknowledgment of the long road ahead is crucial for a franchise that has seen better days.
The Nets’ Reconstruction
The Brooklyn Nets, once a powerhouse in the league, find themselves in a state of flux. Following a disappointing 2023-24 season, where they finished with a 32-50 record and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2017-18, the team is undergoing a significant overhaul. General Manager Sean Marks made headlines by trading swingman Mikal Bridges to the New York Knicks in a deal that netted the Nets four first-round draft picks and a second-round pick.
With five picks in the upcoming draft, including four in the first round, the Nets are strategically positioning themselves for the future. Overall, they hold an impressive 25 picks over the next seven drafts, a number that could increase if they decide to move veterans like Bojan Bogdanovic, Dorian Finney-Smith, Dennis Schroder, and Cam Johnson.
Embracing the Challenge
As the Nets look to rebuild, the players are aware of the challenges ahead. Finney-Smith commented on the trade rumors, stating, “It’s part of the business.” The team is also cognizant of the potential talent available in the 2025 draft, which could feature franchise-altering players like Duke’s Cooper Flagg and Rutgers’ Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper.
Despite the low expectations set by oddsmakers, who predict the Nets may struggle to win more than 20 games this season, the players are embracing the challenge. Johnson noted, “We’ve had these conversations, and I think the one thing I can gather from it is that we’re all embracing this challenge.” This attitude could serve as a catalyst for the team to play freely and without the burden of high expectations.
Simmons’ Health and Performance
Central to the Nets’ hopes for the upcoming season is the health and performance of Ben Simmons. After undergoing a microscopic partial discectomy in March to address a lower-back nerve impingement, Simmons is optimistic about his physical condition. He has been diligent in his rehabilitation, stating, “I feel like when my body is healthy, that’s the confidence I always have.”
Simmons has expressed confidence in his ability to return to form, emphasizing the importance of consistency and staying in shape. “I think people forget me as a player when I’m healthy, I can play basketball, I’m pretty good, right?” he remarked, highlighting his determination to prove his worth on the court.
The Impact of a Healthy Simmons
The potential return of a healthy Simmons could significantly alter the Nets’ trajectory this season. General Manager Sean Marks noted the positive energy Simmons brings to the team, stating, “People enjoy playing with him.” The camaraderie and chemistry developed during pickup games have been encouraging signs for the franchise.
However, a successful season for Simmons could complicate the Nets’ long-term plans. If he performs at a high level, it may push the team out of contention for top draft prospects like Flagg, Bailey, or Harper. Yet, for veterans like Finney-Smith, the priority remains clear: “I’m trying to win. If Ben is Ben, I feel like we (have) a good chance to win some games.”
As the Brooklyn Nets embark on this new journey, all eyes will be on Ben Simmons. His health, mindset, and performance will not only shape his future but also the future of a franchise in transition. With a commitment to improvement and a focus on teamwork, Simmons is ready to lead the charge in Brooklyn’s reconstruction.