Ben Simmons is now finally set to begin his 2021-22 campaign with the Brooklyn Nets. Knowing him for his defensive skills on the court, many fans remain excited to see how he slots in alongside Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Unfortunately, the concerns about his shooting form remain.
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Of course, as Simmons’ debut with the team nears, there are videos of the 25-year-old practicing being shared across platforms. However, not all fans seem excited about Simmons‘ return.
Ben Simmons doing some shooting work after Nets practice pic.twitter.com/eiqbru4UHt
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) March 5, 2022
Are fans not happy about Ben Simmons practicing?
In a recent video shared by @Krisplashed on Twitter, Simmons was seen working on his shooting skills during the Nets’ practice. While the focus of the clip was on LaMarcus Aldridge, Simmons was quite visible at the back. It was clear that Simmons was practicing his shooting form while following some instructions.
Though some Nets fans are loyal and supportive, many were unimpressed with Simons’ shooting.
While Simmons was a key player in Philadelphia, the guard’s shooting led to their infamous downfall during the playoffs last season. His relationship with the team fell apart shortly after that, eventually leading to a blockbuster trade with the Brooklyn Nets.
Even if no one doubts Simmons’ ability to defend, there are concerns about his being able to keep with the Durant and Irving. After all, he was traded for James Harden.
Most comments about Simmons’ form from users were brutal.
Ben form like top 10’worst I’ve seen and that wrist motion??yuck https://t.co/SjqhZMcrst
— dre (@BlockedbyTari17) March 5, 2022
Many hoped he would straighten his elbow out, also trying to advise Simmons about how he could better his form.
Bro it’s not hard keep that elbow tuck and flick the wrist make sure the ball comes off your index and middle finger. Line it up with your foot shoulder or head 👌🏽👌🏽 https://t.co/fPqTTaCsJt
— salvatore (@lighterthanlfe) March 6, 2022
More Ben shooting pic.twitter.com/0s4x4zlnfC
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) March 5, 2022
Some fans did defend Simmons, letting people know that he was trying to work on his fans. The Nets, as per some fans, are trying to rebuild his entire form.
Looks like they are rebuilding his form from the ground up, and your hating? Sixer fans were mad he didn’t evolve , now it looks like he’s working on it and you’re still mad? Come on lol
— DHarch (@dharch37) March 5, 2022
https://twitter.com/Sean_ggugg23/status/1500175320032460801?s=20&t=vYGK5IOwSl27cOLe9pxGNw
Ben is in the background hah
— CGhi (@Gallavalla) March 5, 2022
I appreciate the total refusal to change anything despite it clearly not working
— Cameron (@CameronThorby) March 5, 2022
How hard is it to get a mf’er to straighten his elbow and get his hand under the ball https://t.co/wnUz9QrzSm
— Roman Lopez (@ASAP_Roman3) March 6, 2022
However, fans remained firm on their opinion. To many, Simmons was not even trying to shoot well.
https://twitter.com/GPallatuci/status/1500180603706265606?s=20&t=vYGK5IOwSl27cOLe9pxGNw
You'll know if the FT is going in based on the elbow angle. It's crazy.
— C Noll (@CNoll50) March 5, 2022
Let them get the same summer shoot around videos that we had to watch for years…they’ll learn.
— Aaron (@bixler22) March 5, 2022
Philadelphia 76ers fans spoke up, letting Nets fans know that they are “in for a sweet treat”.
Oh man nothing has changed
Nets fans are in for a sweet treat https://t.co/p7yZTmghn0
— Nima (@VStage13V) March 5, 2022
When will Simmons play for the Nets?
As of now, there is no proper date for Simmons’ return. He has not yet participated in practice completely, Steve Nash citing the reason as ‘back soreness’. The Nets, on their end, have stated that Simmons is ‘reconditioning’ and will need some time to get back out on the court.
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?Ben is still working through a number of things,? Nash said earlier.
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Irrespective of what people might say, there is still some level of excitement about Simmons’ Nets debut. Because ultimately, only Simmons’ time on the court can tell us how well he fits with the team.
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The Nets, on their end, are currently placed eighth on the Eastern Conference table with a 32-32 win-loss record. They last played the Miami Heat, losing 113-107.