Is Ben Simmons’s condition well enough for him to compete in the regular season? The question may have been pondered upon by Brooklyn Nets fans everywhere in light of the player’s noticeable absence during the recent preseason game against the 76ers. Having been absent for the majority of the 2023-24 season, it didn’t help the player’s case when reports started to run that the issue with his back may have made a comeback. Fortunately, a recent update provided by the 28-year-old himself will help ease any tension regarding his availability.

Earlier today, in the aftermath of the Nets’ matchup against the Toronto Raptors, Simmons indicated that his back feels “pretty good” in comparison to the troubles he was dealing with in the previous tournament. Furthermore, he also added, “I think it’s one of those things the next day is just very telling. But I’ve had no setbacks so far, and I feel great.” All in all, the player is excited to start the regular season run and looks to be available throughout it.

Despite being a bit injury-prone right from the start, Ben Simmons did not have much trouble during his tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers. He won Rookie of the Year in 2018 and continued dropping memorable averages later on. However, the player hasn’t gotten much chance to prove his worth ever since he joined the Nets. Amidst trouble with his leg, knee, and two subsequent back surgeries, the point guard/power forward has only been able to play 57 games in the last two seasons, only being available for 15 matchups back in 2023-24.

Therefore, amidst this roller coaster of the last few years, the player himself may be looking to keep things stable. There has been some success on that front, as he has managed to average 5.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 3.7 assists during his 3 recent preseason appearances. It may be even lower than what the player had averaged the last two seasons, but it is a good start.

“I think people forget me as a player when I’m healthy, I can play basketball, I’m pretty good, right?” said Simmons during Media Day. “For me, it’s just being consistent with that, and staying on top of my body. Getting better every day and staying in the gym with these guys.” Given that the Nets have only been through the preseason for the moment, Simmons’ injury can make a comeback anytime in the future. However, those who are afraid of the same just need to hear what one of the player’s professional companion has to say.

“Trust me on this one”: Ben Simmons’ trainer believes 3x NBA All-Star will rebound from injury

Back in September, doubts about Ben Simmons’ availability were still running rampant. Discussion about the same took hold off on social media too during the period as predictions began running about the upcoming season. Even after NBA Central highlighted a clip of Simmons practicing shots, not everyone was convinced, with one user writing “Shoutout Chris Brickley but Simmons a lost cause.” What the fan would not have anticipated was that he would receive a response from Simmons’ trainer, Chris Brickley, himself.

“Thanks bro but Ben is healthy, moving very well, he is better now than his All Star seasons” wrote Brickley. “I’ve never co-signed a player that didn’t prove it when their season started. Trust me on this one.”

It may not have been entirely because of what Chris Brickley said, but the Nets are choosing to give another chance to their injury-prone star. Whether he leaves a better impression this time around will be answered only in due course.

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.