(Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
The Brooklyn Nets hope that Ben Simmons can get back to his former self.
The former No. 1 pick has barely been able to play for his ‘new’ team, struggling with lower-back injuries and mental health hurdles.
He’s been putting in a lot of work in the offseason, acknowledging that he owes it to the fans to go back to his All-Star-caliber level, and looking forward to turning the narrative around about him.
Judging by his preseason game vs. the Philadelphia 76ers, the left-handed point forward is right on track, as it seemed like he had never missed any time with injuries.
Fans took to Twitter to react to his highlights, and while some are still skeptical and will need to see him do that in the regular season and the playoffs before taking him seriously, others gave him props for all the hard work.
If THAT Ben Simmons was in Brooklyn the last 2 years, you really have to wonder if KD moves on.
An agressive, engaged Ben Simmons, and KD, with some help…
That’s a NIGHTMARE for the rest of the league
— Chris Manno (@Mann_O_Steel17) October 17, 2023
Ben Simmons had 8 turnovers in 29 minutes in a preseason game
The overhype is unreal
— Sean Barnard (@Sean_Barnard1) October 17, 2023
Hes a max contract player he should be doing this
— TheWarriorsHouse (@GSWarriorsHouse) October 17, 2023
Ben Simmons shootin turn around fade aways ??? boiii bouta take over Brooklyn
— Top.Rapper.Quotes (@TopRapperQuotes) October 17, 2023
Simmons finished the night with eight points, six rebounds, and nine assists in 29 minutes, but the footage showed encouraging signs about his game.
He was driving through the lane, finishing plays with both hands, and didn’t hesitate to absorb and finish through contract, as happened many times before in the past.
He even attempted some turnaround fadeaway shots from mid-range, a shot that could unleash a whole new layer to his game.
Simmons’ defensive skills and playmaking could help any team get to the next level.
But, for now, people will just have to see him do that when it counts before giving him the nod again.
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