Ben Simmons’ stint with the Brooklyn Nets seems to be concluding, as he missed the team’s recent game against the Miami Heat while discussions for a contract buyout progress. Coach Jordi Fernandez confirmed Simmons will remain away from the squad but refrained from commenting on the expected separation.
Despite the circumstances, Fernandez acknowledged Simmons’ efforts to recover from multiple injuries that hindered his performance in Brooklyn. Simmons, the top pick of the 2016 NBA Draft, has faced significant setbacks, including a back injury that limited his playtime since he joined the Nets in a trade for James Harden in 2022. He sat out for the remainder of that season and played in only 15 games during the last season, primarily due to ongoing issues from lower back nerve damage.
This season has seen him participating in 33 of 51 games, starting 24, while averaging 6.2 points and 6.9 assists. With a salary close to $64 million this season and set to become a free agent afterward, Simmons is reportedly exploring opportunities with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Clippers for a potential signing.