Ben Simmons’ Return Energizes the Brooklyn Nets: What It Means for the Team
In a remarkable turn of events, Ben Simmons, the former Philadelphia 76ers star, is showing signs of a reinvigorated career with the Brooklyn Nets. His performance in the early stages of the NBA season indicates that he might be returning to the player who was a three-time All-Star from 2019 to 2021 and an All-NBA player in the 2019-20 season.
During a recent matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, Simmons showcased his versatility and playmaking abilities. As soon as LaMelo Ball of the Hornets launched a three-point attempt, Simmons, now in a Nets uniform, quickly spotted his teammate Spencer Dinwiddie down the court. He executed a pinpoint full-court pass, leading to an effortless layup.
Simmons’ performance in that game was emblematic of his early-season resurgence, racking up 10 rebounds and eight assists, underscoring his reemerging form.
Although it’s still early in the NBA season, this promising start suggests that, when in the right situation, with the right supporting cast, and under the guidance of a coach who understands how to maximize Simmons’ skills, he can be a valuable asset on the court.
Ben Simmons’ journey was marred by injury setbacks, including missing the entire 2021-22 season and playing through back issues in the previous season. However, the 6’11” point guard seems to be making the most of his fresh start with the Brooklyn Nets.
In the four games played this season, the Nets hold a 2-2 record, and Simmons has made significant contributions. He currently averages 7.3 points, making his mark with team-high averages of 10.3 rebounds and 7.5 assists per game. He also showcases his defensive prowess with an average of 1.3 blocks and an impressive field goal shooting percentage of 56%, even on limited attempts.
The fast-paced offensive style preferred by the Brooklyn Nets seems to align perfectly with Simmons’ skill set. The team emphasizes pushing the pace and boasts an array of sharpshooters. These early results demonstrate that Ben Simmons’ ability to orchestrate the offense and his playmaking talents are essential for the team’s success.
According to Simmons’ agent, Bernie Lee, the past two years, marred by injuries, provided ammunition for critics. He explained that Simmons, driven by his competitive nature, felt compelled to return to the court even when not physically ready, contributing to the backlash. However, after taking a step back, investing in rehab, and gaining perspective on his career and place within the team, Simmons is now back with renewed energy.
Head coach Jacques Vaughn has implemented a strategy that focuses on an up-tempo and fast-paced game, looking for quality shots early in the shot clock. The philosophy is to catch opponents off guard and avoid giving them a chance to set up defensively. This approach complements Simmons’ playing style and emphasizes his strengths.
The Brooklyn Nets, with their sharpshooters and an up-tempo playing style, are currently fifth in three-pointers made per game (14.5) and boast the second-highest three-point shooting percentage at 41.7%. Additionally, they lead the league in fast-break points at 24.0 per game. This potent combination of Simmons’ playmaking and his teammates’ shooting prowess creates a promising dynamic for the team.
Simmons’ rebounding skills have improved significantly, setting a new career best by averaging 1.5 rebounds more than his previous highest average during the 2018-19 season. His ability to secure rebounds and initiate fast breaks aligns perfectly with the Brooklyn Nets’ game plan.
His exceptional passing abilities remain a vital asset. Whether making a spectacular or straightforward pass, Simmons excels in creating opportunities for his teammates. His 7.5 assists per game result in a 20-point contribution, along with creating 12.5 assist opportunities each game.
While Simmons may not be a high-volume scorer, his role in the Brooklyn Nets doesn’t demand it. He is yet to attempt a three-point shot this season, with the majority of his 25 field goal attempts coming from within the paint. His unique combination of length, strength, and athleticism enables him to drive to the basket effectively.
The Brooklyn Nets have a plethora of players capable of scoring 15-20 points per game. For Simmons, a consistent performance with around 10 points, along with his impressive rebounding and playmaking statistics, makes him an invaluable addition to the team’s well-rounded roster. The team’s offensive efficiency and high-scoring games highlight the synergy between Simmons’ style of play and the Nets’ strategy.