Simmons Sees Back Improvement, Avoids Setting Nets Return Date Yet
Ben Simmons Opens Up About Frustration Amid Prolonged Recovery from Back Injury
Brooklyn Nets forward Ben Simmons recently revealed his mounting frustration over a lower back nerve impingement that has sidelined him for nearly two months. Addressing the media before the Nets clashed with the Denver Nuggets, Simmons expressed his eagerness to contribute to his team but acknowledged the unpredictable nature of injuries in sports.
The injury, initially mistaken for a hip issue after a game against the Milwaukee Bucks on November 6, has seen Simmons sidelined for 21 consecutive games. Despite enduring the rest of the game with the injury, subsequent MRI results confirmed the nerve impingement, a recurring setback that previously cut short his 2022-23 season.
Simmons disclosed that his recovery progress has been gradual. Recent updates from the Nets indicate that while he has increased individual workouts, a return isn’t imminent. The team’s announcement suggests a reevaluation of his progress in two weeks, implying his absence will likely extend into early January.
Speaking about his rehabilitation routine, Simmons mentioned beginning on-court activities, including shooting practice, emphasizing a gradual approach to regaining fitness.
This injury marks another setback for Simmons, who faced limited playtime across the past two seasons due to trade negotiations and back issues. His statistics in the six games played this season, although showcasing his prowess as a point guard, reflected a less aggressive offensive approach compared to his earlier years with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his return, Simmons remains optimistic about reclaiming his peak performance. He refrained from committing to a specific timeline, citing the complexities of back injuries and emphasizing the need for patience and progress over setting rigid return dates.
Simmons, while acknowledging the challenges of recovery, remains steadfast in his commitment to rehabilitation and a eventual return to the court, aiming to recapture the form that defined his All-Star years in Philadelphia.
@Sportscliffs on Twitter and Instagram and also like our facebook page