It’s only a pre-season game, but we’ll remember that the big comeback of Ben Simmons on the pitch will take place tonight against the Sixers. It will be at the Barclays Center in a much less boiling atmosphere than in Philadelphia, and for the first time, we should therefore see Ben Simmons together, with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.
“Barring any setbacks between that moment and the time of the match, all of our guys should be available” warned Steve Nash. “It’s a lot of fun. I believe so much in his game. He’s such a dynamic, unique player who does so much on the basketball court. He is a great addition to our team. He makes his teammates better on both sides of the pitch. So I gave him support after his injury and his long period of inactivity, and I allowed him to progress at his own pace with our group. So, it’s very exciting”.
“I am one of those players who can get back into shape very quickly”
In total, we have not seen Ben Simmons on a pitch for 440 days. His last game was June 20, 2021, with a playoff elimination against the Hawks. Criticized by his coach and plagued by psychological problems, he had asked to leave. Finally, it was not until February, and this exchange against James Harden, that he left Philadelphia and landed in Brooklyn.
“I’m pretty sure I’m ready to play” the Australian announced last week. ” It’s an awesome feeling. I have resumed the habits of playing on any terrain, and I feel good”.
Of course, the recovery will be smooth. No doubt he will play fifteen minutes. No need to force after 15 months without playing, even if he is in good shape.
“Naturally, I’m one of those players who can get back into shape very quickly, so that’s not really a concern for me,” he continued. It’s just stamina on five-on-five, all over the court. But overall, I feel great. »
“Ben is also going to help us pick up the pace and get not only 3-point shots but also transition shots.”
In the end, the only frustrated one may be Seth Curry as he is recovering from ankle surgery. He knows how valuable it is to have a creator like Ben Simmons to find good positions.
“This is going to be great! » spear stephen’s brother. “We have guys who can create 3-point shots for themselves, but when you have guys like Kevin and Ben who can create shots for other people, the percentages are bound to improve. It’s just easier to do. We didn’t have someone like Ben. I don’t think anyone in the team is capable of doing what he does every night. »
On the edge of the field in training, Seth Curry is salivating in advance. ” All these different and talented players can create shots for others, and they will help the attack to reach another level and bring something else. Ben will also help us pick up the pace and get not only 3-point shots but also transition shots. It’s fun to watch him train, and it will be even better when I’m on the pitch.”
