A new video featuring Ben Simmons of the Brooklyn Nets should both excite and also concern fans of the team.
In the video, Simmons is spotted with Nets newcomer Dennis Smith Jr. as well as Royce O’Neale during a practice session on the court.
The footage, via NetsKingdom, shows some great plays, incredible speed, and wonderful shots too.
However, it doesn’t show Simmons playing at all.
Brooklyn Nets Dennis Smith Jr with Royce O’neale & Ben Simmons 👀 pic.twitter.com/QsRle10QG6
— NetsKingdom 👑🗽 (@NetsKingdomAJ) August 17, 2023
Instead, Simmons is seen draped in a towel on the sidelines.
He’s present for the duration of the session and is paying close attention to his teammates.
But he’s not actually playing and that might worry fans.
Simmons only played in 42 games last season, held back by a nagging injury.
His statline for 2022-23 was nothing worth bragging about: the former number one draft pick averaged 6.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.1 assists.
When he was playing, he didn’t always look like his usual self either.
He was very cautious with his possessions, didn’t take chances, and also made numerous fouls.
All of this had fans wondering what was wrong with Simmons and if he would be able to fix it and get back on track.
This summer is a very important one for the star because he has a lot to prove in the new season.
The Nets also have plenty to prove too.
They lost Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant last year and are now looking for a new identity and more players to step up and help lead them.
Smith and O’Neale might be able to do that, but will Simmons?
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