Nets Relying On Ben Simmons Is “Dangerous”

He's not wrong.

During a new podcast conversation with Bleav In Nets' Erik Slater, New York Post beat reporter Brian Lewis unpacked why now-ex-Brooklyn Nets head coach Jacque Vaughn opting to let oft-injured malcontent guard Ben Simmons run the club's offense early on (before he was inevitably injured again, of course) may have been a dicey proposition.

"The decision to give Simmons the reins, for lack of a better term earlier this season was was an interesting one, to say the least given his injury history," Slater opined. "Maybe you can argue they don't have as much of another choice because of the lack of talent on the roster. But how surprising was that to you? Because I know to me it seemed like almost a recipe for disaster, which is what it kind of turned out to be."

"I don't know that it's surprising when you consider [Simmons'] resume and salary," Lewis said."I think it's more dangerous than surprising. When you are saying, 'Well, we are putting all our eggs in a basket that's labeled Ben Simmons,' that's dangerous."

He's not wrong.

Beyond his inability to stay healthy during any of his three seasons with Brooklyn, Simmons is a tough cog to fit into lineups even when he is available.

The 6'10" Simmons, a former three-time All-Star and two-time All-Defensive Team selection while with the Philadelphia 76ers, has appeared in a scant 12 contests (10 starts) with the 21-33 Nets this season, averaging 6.8 points on 59.4% shooting from the field, 8.4 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.7 blocks. 

As far as Simmons' salary is concerned the former No. 1 draft pick in 2016 out of LSU is currently earning $37.9 million this season, and will make a fully guaranteed $40.3 million next season, before mercifully becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2025. Given his erratic health, mental state, and production, he may be looking at a new deal in the range of a veteran's minimum or a bi-annual exception.