Ben Simmons is already back in the gym, however, after years of starts and stops, some wonder if he will last much longer in the NBA.
Well, no more.
Hoopshype’s Michael Scotto spoke to a source who said he believes Simmons “loves the NBA lifestyle too much” to retire as he continues to suffer from back injuries.
Simmons has played just 57 games over the past three seasons due to a combination of Philadelphia 76ers resistance and lingering injuries. He suffers from recurrent back and underwent a microscopic partial discectomy in March.
The three-time All-Star has already posted workout videos and is expected to be fully healthy by the start of the 2024-25 season. The Nets owe Simmons $40. 3 million in 2024-25, the final year of his five years. $177. 2 million contract. Signed at a time when Simmons was one of the NBA’s most productive young players, the contract became a real drag as he raked in cash with virtually no impact on the court.
Simmons averaged just 6. 1 points, 7. 9 rebounds and 5. 7 assists in 15 games this season. While he has a point of versatility that can still help a team, Simmons has yet given up on his progression as a scorer. Since arriving in Brooklyn in the 2021-22 season, Simmons has averaged just 6. 7 points per game, less than his career average (14. 4 points per game).
Unless he miraculously recovers, Simmons’ NBA lifestyle will be affected starting in the 2025-26 season. It’s hard to see a team providing him with much more than a veteran’s minimum contract until he can improve his health.