Inside The Nets

Ben Simmons on his frustration regarding his injury

The Nets have been without Ben Simmons since November 6.

Peter Sunjic

© Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Ben Simmons is considered by the Brooklyn Nets as a vital member of their team. He is coach Jacque Vaughn's starting point guard because he plays elite defense while also contributing to a transition-focused offense.

Though Coach Vaughn desires to have Ben on the team, the Australian player consistently contends with injuries, with his most recent setback being a lower back nerve impingement sidelining him since November 6; Simmons has now personally shared his sentiments on the matter.

"It's probably one of the most frustrating points in my career just 'cause I want to help my team win and compete," Ben said in a pre-game interview. "At the end of the day, it's part of sports. Not every game is promised. Injuries happen. Unfortunately, it happened, and now for me, focusing on what I can do now and doing what I can to be back on the floor."

Why the Nets miss having Simmons on the team

Before November 6, when Ben Simmons was in action for the Nets, he excelled as the main playmaker, not focusing much on scoring but energizing the team to maintain a fast-paced game and secure points in transition.

While Ben Simmons was active, the team regularly maintained a fast-paced game, but since his injury, Brooklyn's tempo has slowed. Spencer Dinwiddie has shifted to more pick-and-roll plays and kick-outs, departing from the previous strategy of running from almost every defensive rebound. 

Despite Dennis Smith Jr. contributing in this aspect, his injury struggles have left Coach Vaughn heavily relying on Dinwiddie's performances. With Smith's return, there's hope for a return to the previous style, but the optimal running and gunning performance is seen when Ben takes the lead.

Simmons will likely return in 2024

Earlier this week, the Nets announced that Ben will be re-evaluated in two weeks, which puts his potential return date in January 2024. He is missed as a vital cog in Vaughn's system as the Nets' depth dwindles due to injury.

When the Nets get the 6'10" Aussie back, they will look more complete, given they have everyone playing in their optimal role again. It will be an exciting time for Brooklyn, but in the meantime, they have to keep playing well without him and build good habits ahead of his return.

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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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