Fortunately for Brooklyn Nets fans, they are used to Ben Simmons‘ absences on the court. With that, as Simmons and the Nets were in a fierce battle against the top-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves, Simmons was surprisingly sidelined from the game.

During the third quarter, Simmons experienced left leg soreness, prompting his unexpected exit from the court. Before his departure, he contributed in 15 minutes, scoring 4 points, securing 9 rebounds, and providing 1 assist with 8:04 left in the stretch.

Just nearly a month ago, Simmons returned to the court after a lengthy 38-game absence due to back concerns. Throughout his tenure with the Nets, he has battled through several injuries, making it an ongoing narrative.

The severity of Ben’s injury remains unknown. The Nets have a history of being cautious with Simmons. With that, they will await further medical updates on his potential return for the next game against the Memphis Grizzlies. The Nets initially planned to have Simmons play alongside a unit with limited shooting and was managing to hold their own against the Wolves.

However, their struggles began after Simmons’ exit. Initially, they matched the score after Dennis Schroder‘s assist to cut the 2-point margin. Moreover, they embarked on a run early in the fourth.

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However, the Wolves’ young roster quickly took the game over, as the Nets ultimately suffered a 101-86 loss, with visible frustrations at the game’s conclusion.

The Nets were initially confused about Ben Simmons’ injury

The trade involving James Harden has yet to yield substantial results. During his stint with the Nets, he recorded multiple career lows and has had a history of unfulfilled expectations. Moreover, Simmons’ tenure with the team has been marred by frequent absences, primarily due to back and leg injuries.

With that, as Simmons took to the locker room after his sudden exit from the recent game, the Nets authorities were initially confused and cited his injury as knee-related and requiring imaging. However, swiftly, the team clarified it to be leg soreness.

Simmons also has a history of dealing with leg soreness, tracing back to multiple stretches last season and a missed game this season after coming back from his back injury.

Simmons came to the Nets at the 2022 trade deadline. Since then, he has only managed to be available for 55 games in the 2 years. Earlier this season, Simmons exuded newfound confidence and a drive to perform this season. With that, he aimed further to demolish the surrounding narratives. However, injuries continue to significantly impact his overall abilities on the court.