“People are so hard on Ben Simmons” - Denver Nuggets star shares his thoughts on Nets player’s back issues
Ben Simmons is one of the most talented playmakers in the league. Standing at 6-foot-10, the Brooklyn Nets star can outplay most of his opponents with ease. Unfortunately, his injury problems have kept him sidelined for a long time.
The Nets guard missed the entire 2021-22 season and has only appeared in 42 games this season. However, he's been shut down and won't return, even if the Nets end up making the playoffs.
Michael Porter Jr., a Denver Nuggets forward, recently spoke about Simmons. Porter Jr. is familiar with the situation the Nets star is going through since he's also dealt with numerous injury problems throughout his entire career.
Michael Porter Jr. understands what it feels like to be Ben Simmons
The 6-foot-10 Nets guard was recently diagnosed with a nerve impingement in his back. Due to this, he won't return this season, even if his team ends up making the playoffs.
In 42 games of the 2022-23 season, Ben Simmons has posted career-low numbers across the board. However, Michael Porter Jr. believes that people are too hard on him.
“People are so hard on Ben Simmons," Porter said. "I watched a little highlight video from a couple years ago — he’s just flying down the lane. He’ll get that back, but it just takes time.”
Simmons has dealt with injury problems throughout his entire career. He's been in the league for seven years, yet has appeared in only 45 games per season. The Denver Nuggets forward, however, knows this pain.
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Like Simmons, Michael Porter Jr. missed his rookie season due to injury problems. He made his NBA debut in the 2019-20 season, but the most games he's played in a single season is 61.
The 6-10 forward has appeared in 59 games in the current campaign and has helped the Nuggets get the top spot in the West. After playing only nine games last season, Porter Jr. knows what it feels like to deal with serious injury problems.
While the Nuggets forward is not back at 100% yet, he's having a great season, averaging 17.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Porter Jr. is also one of the best 3-point shooters in the league with a conversion rate of 41.5%.
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Ben Simmons is only 26 and has two more years left on his contract. While many fans have written him off, the truth is that the 6-10 guard is not done yet. Simmons could have a few more great seasons if he recovers completely.