Brooklyn Nets are getting ready to unleash a huge battle against the Philadelphia 76ers, and a developing story has gotten fans rattled! Tonight is a special game, and it’s not just a rivalry, but it’s the chance for Brooklyn (13-21) to put its stamp on the Eastern Conference standings. Yet one key twist in the lineup could turn everything on its head. Going into the tip-off, the talking point is hardly going to be just the matchup, but rather about one key player whose presence or absence in the game creates a big impact.

Everyone is asking- What’s up with Ben Simmons and what are the Nets going to do without him? Let’s take a deeper dive into the same, and analyze how the Aussie fared this season.

Ben Simmons’ Season: Flashes of potential, but frustration mounts over another absence

Ben Simmons’ absence because of left calf soreness is a significant blow to the Nets, especially given the steady impact he has had this season. Simmons has averaged 5.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game, ranking 10th in the league in assists—a testament to his elite playmaking ability. While his scoring has not returned to pre-injury levels, the Aussie’s court vision and defensive versatility have been invaluable for a Brooklyn team navigating a rebuilding phase. However, this latest injury adds another hurdle to Simmons’ journey back to full form, raising worrying concerns about his durability moving forward.

Going up against the 76ers team, which Simmons knows too well, would’ve given him the chance to show off his talent against former teammates. He’ll be missed in multiple positions for defense and setting teammates up against a star-studded offensive line led by Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. So, with Simmons officially confirmed out, let us see the Nets’ depth chart.

The Nets might give many more minutes to Reece Beekman in Ben Simmons’ absence, who’s stepped up in recent contests. In addition, however, Noah Clowney and Nic Claxton have to step up on both ends of the floor to compensate for the Aussie. So, can the Brooklyn side overcome these setbacks and give a tough fight to the Sixers?

Can the Nets overcome the 76ers without Ben Simmons?

The 76ers are gonna give Brooklyn a pretty interesting time. Seems like they’re getting on a hot run after a poor start. Joel Embiid’s strength down low, alongside Tyrese Maxey with his interesting against-the-wall scoring, will need to click. Nic Claxton needs to try and contain Embiid—funnily enough, a player the Nets have clashed with historically—with averages of 9.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2 assists per game for Nic. In every one of the last ten encounters, eight wins have gone to the 76ers, usually capitalizing on The Process’s ability to go inside with shooters like Tobias Harris stretching things.

Historically, the Sixers have had an edge over the Nets in head-to-head instances, mainly soaking out wins with physical play, and a well-balanced offensive show. If the Nets want to position themselves to separate the competition, they will need to shoot well from the 3 and really improve offensively outside-in on the perimeter.

As the game approaches, the Nets are already at a crossroads. Can they band together for a win, or is the absence of Ben Simmons going to be the deciding factor in a hugely emotional and competitive contest? For fans, they feel bittersweet about the fact that they won’t see Simmons face off against his old team yet again. Can the Nets shock the 76ers, or is this one too much for Philadelphia to lose? Who are you rooting for?