The Brooklyn Nets have devised a strategy for Ben Simmons this offseason, aiming to maximize his talents. Head coach Jordi Fernandez emphasized that the team is focused on playing at a fast pace, noting that Simmons is among the best playmakers to facilitate that style. Key players like Cam Thomas and Cameron Johnson, who are poised to be full-time starters next season, have expressed their confidence in Simmons. Dennis Schroder mentioned that during the Nets’ minicamp, the players had a week of training together, and they “looked great,” fueling excitement about Simmons’s health and potential contributions.
When asked about his teammates’ praise, Simmons responded with assurance, saying, “I think people forget that when I’m healthy, I can really play. I’m pretty good at it.” He acknowledged the importance of maintaining consistency and focusing on his physical condition.
After undergoing season-ending back surgery in March, Simmons has received full clearance to participate in training camp. Throughout Media Day, it became evident that his health remains a top priority. He expressed confidence in his current condition, reflecting on his positive experiences playing pickup games this offseason. “When my body feels good, that boosts my confidence,” he shared with reporters. “I feel great and ready to go. I used to have days where I’d play hard and then the next day I’d be stiff in my back, but since getting back into playing this summer, I haven’t experienced those setbacks.”
Simmons also touched on his upcoming free agency, emphasizing his focus on durability. “For me, it’s crucial to stay healthy,” he reiterated. “I want to play the basketball I love and maximize my potential. While financial aspects are important, my primary goal is to be on the court and healthy.”
Currently, Simmons is under a five-year, $177.2 million contract, which will expire in the 2025 offseason. If he performs well, there is a possibility the Nets may consider re-signing him. Despite the challenges posed by his health issues, his skills as a player are undeniable and can lead to wins for the team. However, if he receives another contract offer—whether from Brooklyn or another team—it’s unlikely to be a max deal.
Simmons’s market value remains uncertain due to his injury history, which complicates his reliability as a player. At just 28 years old and a three-time All-Star, he still possesses considerable talent. Nevertheless, teams will weigh his past injuries heavily when determining his worth in future contracts, especially considering how he fits within the evolving landscape of modern NBA offenses. The Nets are optimistic about Simmons’s potential, but his ability to stay healthy will ultimately dictate his future, both with the team and in the league.
