Nets' Ben Simmons Says He Hasn't Had Setback with Back Injury During NBA Offseason

Brooklyn Nets forward Ben Simmons confirmed that he hasn't experienced any setbacks in his recovery from the back surgery that ended his 2023-24 campaign.

"I'd have days where I'd have a tough day of playing," Simmons said on Monday, per Brian Lewis of the New York Post. "The next day I'd be locked up in my back. I haven't had one of those setbacks since I've been back playing [over the summer]."

The 28-year-old was limited to just 15 appearances last season before undergoing back surgery for the second time in three years on March 14.

Simmons suited up in six of the Nets' first seven games last season, but he missed multiple months due to a nerve impingement in his lower back. He returned on Jan. 29, appearing in nine more contests before his season ultimately came to an end.

Nets general manager Sean Marks confirmed that Simmons would be a full participant in training camp.

"From what we've seen so far with Ben, Ben is a full go for camp, which for us, that's exciting to see," Marks said on Thursday, via Lewis. "And for him, he's champing at the bit to be able to get out there and contribute."

When healthy, the four-time All-Star has struggled to make an impact with Brooklyn compared to his previous tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers. He's averaging just 6.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game as a member of the Nets.

An improved year from Simmons could help his long-term future, as he's set to earn $40.3 million next season before hitting unrestricted free agency in 2025. If he's able to show that he can stay healthy and effective, it would obviously increase the value of his next contract.

The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 draft addressed his impending free agency on Monday, telling reporters that "the money is nice and all that, but I want to play healthy."

Simmons will be back in action for the first time since Feb. 26 when the Nets open up the preseason with a game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Oct. 8.