The Brooklyn Nets saw a disappointing end to their season after getting swept in the first round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs.
The Nets definitely could have used more help on both ends of the floor. Ben Simmons was brought in during the middle of the 2021-22 campaign to provide the team an additional playmaker and solid defender. However, the 6-foot-11 guard was unable to suit up in the postseason due to injury.
It seems that Brooklyn is prepared to move forward with Simmons on the roster. The organization is also reportedly prepared to work together with the three-time All-Star to ensure that he is physically and mentally fit to make a return to the court.
“Ben Simmons and his camp will sit down with the Nets and hammer out a plan for the ensuing months, one intended to put him on the best path to both physical and mental health and a successful return to the court,” wrote Brian Lewis of the New York Post.
“‘We will work together with the Nets on a summer plan,’ a source close to Simmons told The Post. ‘Everyone is confident.'”
Before the season began, the Nets were one of the favorites to win the title this year. After all, they were fielding a potent Big 3 of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden, who was later traded to the Philadelphia 76ers in the deal that landed them Simmons.
Unfortunately, several issues, including injuries to Durant, Irving’s inability to play some games due to his vaccination status and Harden appearing dissatisfied with the organization, hounded the team all campaign long. Those issues led to the Nets having to earn a playoff berth through the play-in tournament.
Brooklyn did reach the playoffs, but it got manhandled by the No. 2 seed Boston Celtics.
Now, the franchise has a critical offseason ahead. Integrating Simmons into the roster successfully could provide the Nets a needed boost. The Louisiana State University product has career averages of 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.7 assists and 1.7 steals per game.
