Ben Simmons, the point guard for the Brooklyn Nets, was forced to leave a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves prematurely due to a leg injury. The severity of the injury is unclear, and Simmons’ availability for future games is uncertain. This is concerning news for the Nets as Simmons has already missed a significant amount of playing time due to previous injuries, including a herniated disc and leg injuries caused by back problems.
Simmons’ departure from the game occurred in the third quarter, and he did not return. The team spokesperson later clarified that Simmons was experiencing left leg soreness. After the game, Simmons declined to comment on his injury.
Simmons’ injury adds to the growing list of setbacks he has faced since being acquired by the Nets in a trade for former MVP James Harden in 2022. In his time with the team, Simmons has only played in 56 games due to various injuries. The majority of his missed games have been a result of his back problems.
In light of Simmons’ absence, Cam Johnson has been pulled from the Nets’ starting lineup for the past two games. This change is not due to any injury or restriction but rather a decision made by interim coach Kevin Ollie to test out different lineups. Ollie wants Johnson to embrace his role as a bench player and bring his shooting abilities to the team.
Johnson, who recently signed a four-year, $94.5 million extension, struggled in his first game coming off the bench but showed improvement in the following game against the Timberwolves. He finished with 10 points and seven rebounds in 22 minutes. Johnson acknowledges that adjusting to a new role will take time but is determined to find what works best for him and help the team win.
Ollie acknowledges that the situation could change, and Johnson could potentially earn back his starting role. The team is focused on improving every day and wants all players, both starters and bench players, to understand their roles and contribute to the team’s success.
Overall, the Nets face another setback with Ben Simmons’ leg injury. The team hopes for a quick recovery and must adjust their lineup in his absence. Cam Johnson is adapting to his new role as a bench player and is determined to find his rhythm and contribute to the team’s success. The Nets will continue to evaluate their lineups and strive for improvement as they navigate through this challenging period.
