“Ben Simmons made his long-awaited return to the court on Monday after a nearly three-month absence due to a nerve impingement in his left lower back. However, the Brooklyn Nets are cautiously managing his reintroduction, acknowledging the challenges of incorporating him back into the team dynamics.
Coach Jacque Vaughn mentioned that while it’s beneficial to have Simmons back on the floor, the team will be mindful of his minutes and won’t start him immediately. The Nets, currently 18-27 and outside the play-in spots, are facing the task of adjusting line-ups that haven’t played together in Simmons’ absence.
Simmons, a high-priced and injury-prone player, had played only six games this season and a total of 48 since joining the Nets in the 2021-22 trade deadline. Despite missing 38 consecutive games, he has been cleared to play after practicing with G-League Long Island over the weekend.
Concerns about Simmons’ consistent availability due to his injury history were addressed by Coach Vaughn, who stated that Simmons has expressed readiness and received clearance from the performance team. The team looks forward to Simmons contributing and helping them win.
Nic Claxton expressed excitement about Simmons’ return, highlighting his high basketball IQ, defensive abilities, and rebounding skills. The team’s top seven players have rarely been available together this season, making it challenging to establish on-court chemistry.
Simmons, known for his defensive prowess and versatility as a 6-foot-10 defender, is expected to provide a significant advantage to the team. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute to rebounding aligns with the team’s goals. The Nets, having shifted defensively to a switching scheme, anticipate Simmons enhancing their defensive capabilities.
In summary, the Nets are cautiously optimistic about Ben Simmons’ return, recognizing the need to manage his minutes and integrate him into the team effectively. His defensive skills and versatility are seen as crucial assets for a team striving to improve its record and defensive performance.”
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