Fans of the Brooklyn Nets were beyond excited when the team was able to trade for Ben Simmons from the Philadelphia 76ers.
While it’s true that Simmons comes with some baggage and some people are naturally a little hesitant to fully embrace him, it can’t be denied that he’s a terrific basketball player when he’s in his prime.
He will also bring a lot of defensive assistance to the Nets in the weeks ahead as the team tries to regain its footing and push hard into the postseason.
However, it’ll be a bit longer before fans of the Nets are able to see him in action.
Steve Nash says Ben Simmons won't be playing this week.
— Matt Brooks (@MattBrooksNBA) February 28, 2022
On Monday, Brooklyn head coach Steve Nash said that Simmons won’t be playing this week.
This means that the earliest Simmons will appear with his new team will be on Tuesday, March 8 against the Charlotte Hornets.
But it’s the game right after that one that fans are greatly anticipating.
Simmons To Philly
The Nets are facing off against the Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat, and Boston Celtics this week, along with the Hornets on March 8.
Following that game, the Nets will then head to Philadelphia to take on the 76ers.
If Simmons is ready to play during that game, you can expect quite the reaction.
It will be Simmons’ first time on Philly’s court in nearly a year and he will surely be welcomed by a shower of boos from salty Philly fans.
That game will also be the first time James Harden faces off against his former team.
It has the potential to be one of the most talked-about games of the year.
Hopefully, Simmons’ nagging injury will be fully healed by that time because practically every NBA fan wants to see those fireworks.
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