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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Nets (9-9) host the Magic (14-5) tonight at the Barclays Center in their second match-up of the season. The last time they met was on 14th November, when the Nets served a tough 124-104 loss to Orlando. But times have changed because Orlando is in excellent form right now, coming off nine back-to-back wins.

For Brooklyn, who has been struggling to make a breakthrough, having five players on the injury list does not help at all. This includes Ben Simmons, who has been MIA for quite some time. He has played only six out of the 12 Nets’ games so far in the season. The pressing question for tonight’s game vs Orlando is whether he will suit up.

Ben Simmons will not play tonight

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The answer is plain and simple, Simmons will be sitting out tonight’s game as well. Sources said that Simmons had been dealing with nerve irritation in his back and an MRI revealed a nerve impingement in his lower back. On Wednesday, The Nets announced that the former Rookie of the Year will be re-evaluated in 7-10 days. So we cannot expect him on the court for at least a few more games.

USA Today via Reuters

Joining Simmons on the sidelines are Lonnie Walker IV (hamstring strain), Noah Clowney (shoulder), and Dariq Whitehead (right foot injury). Dennis Smith Jr., on the other hand, is probable for tonight’s game. He is dealing with back issues and has missed seven games in the season.

What does the future look like for Simmons?

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This isn’t the only season Ben Simmons has been inconsistent in his game appearances. A string of injuries and surgeries have plagued his performance for the seasons past. He hasn’t played more than 60 games in a season since 2018-19. This season, out of the six games he played, Simmons has averaged 6.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 6.7 assists. The likelihood that he will remain healthy is dwindling as the Nets are put in a difficult situation.

Read More- “I Don’t Even Consider Ben Simmons”: Despite Vowing to Salvage His Career, Nets’ 6’10 All-Star Guard Is Still Invisible to Brian Windhorst

As the Magics travel to Brooklyn tonight to reclaim a win, the inconsistent Nets will have to put up a strong fight against the leading team in the Southeast Division and put a stop to their nine-game winning streak.

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Could this potentially be the end of the road for Ben Simmons? Has the former All-NBA star reached his limits or are you hopeful that he will make a strong comeback? Share your thoughts in the comments below!