Inside The Nets

Ben Simmons is ready to be a leader for the Brooklyn Nets

Simmons aims to take on a pivotal leadership role for the Brooklyn Nets after overcoming challenges in the previous years.

Peter Sunjic

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Entering his sixth season in the NBA, Ben Simmons is embarking on a pivotal year in his career, as he is ready to return to a regular starting role after dealing with major back issues in the 2022/23 season that limited him to only 42 games for the Brooklyn Nets.

He did not look like his usual self in that period, averaging only 6.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. Many NBA fans are aware of Ben's potential, and his promising 2023 preseason showing is a testament to that. He's poised to step into a leadership position in Brooklyn, establishing himself as one of their standout players.

“I think being a leader is one of those things you can lead in many different ways. For me, I try to lead by example,” Simmons said to Brad Blanks. "I’ve had the opportunity to go into this team and do that. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity, and I think I’ve been a great leader so far."

Simmons’ successful preseason

Ben had a couple of solid performances during preseason that were encouraging, to say the least. He is the de facto starting point guard for head coach Jacque Vaughn, and he did not disappoint. Across three games, Ben averaged 6.6 points, five rebounds, and 6.3 assists in just 22 minutes a game.

Away from the stats, Simmons was throwing some flashy passes, showcasing his comfort and health ahead of the 2023/24 season. This bodes well for the Nets, as they view him as their primary playmaker, complemented by a roster of skilled shooters.

“I felt good. There were spurts where we looked great. There are spurts where we don’t know each other. That’s what we’re trying to do, we’re trying to figure each other out,” Ben said after the preseason game against the 76ers. “Obviously, I got to take care of the ball, I’d rather get those turnovers out now than later.”

Ben will be a good veteran for Brooklyn

Being drafted in 2016, Simmons brings a wealth of experience to the roster, positioning him as a crucial leader both on and off the court. Serving as the primary point guard, his vocal presence is expected to yield positive outcomes for the Nets as they strive to secure a Playoff spot in the stacked Eastern Conference.

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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