Ben Simmons sends message to rest of NBA ahead of season
Jan 30, 2020; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) talks to fans before a game against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Ben Simmons has become a punchline while consistently failing to live up to his potential over the past few seasons, but it sounds like the Brooklyn Nets point guard believes that is about to change.
Simmons spoke with the media a handful of times ahead of training camp, which began on Tuesday for the Nets. The former No. 1 overall pick clearly feels like he is being slept on as he enters his eighth NBA season. In an interview with YES Network on Monday, Simmons said people forget that he is “pretty good” when healthy.
“I think people forget, you know, me as a player when I’m healthy. I can play basketball,” Simmons said. “I’m pretty good, right?”
“I think people forget me as a player when I am healthy. I can play basketball. I'm pretty good.”
– Ben Simmons
( @AhnFireDigital )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 30, 2024
Another reporter on Monday asked Simmons about how the 28-year-old currently ranks 14th all time in the NBA in triple-doubles. Simmons bluntly replied that it should serve as a reminder that he is “not that bad at basketball.”
Ben Simmons when asked what being 14th in NBA history in triple-doubles says about his skillset:
"That I'm not that bad at basketball." pic.twitter.com/qe8ew8j2qn
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) September 30, 2024
Simmons is said to be fully healthy after he dealt with recurrent back issues and underwent a procedure. The question, of course, is whether he can avoid another injury. Simmons played in just 15 games for Brooklyn last season and 42 the year before.
Even when he is healthy, Simmons has struggled tremendously with his shooting. His shot has looked greatly improved in recent workouts, but there is a big difference between draining shots during practice versus in a game.
One thing Simmons has on his side is that expectations surrounding him could not be much lower. If he plays at a high level and stays healthy this season, most people will be stunned.
