Five NBA stars who are poised to return from injuries in the 2022-23 season

Ben Simmons finally gets his fresh start in Brooklyn

What first appeared to be a negotiation tactic forced Ben Simmons, the latest high-profile addition to the Brooklyn Nets, to the sidelines for all of the 2021-22 season. Once lauded for his one-of-a-kind positionless defense and playmaking blend, Simmons lost credibility among some when his lack of aggression cost Philly in the 2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals.

Through the drama and ridicule that cast a shadow over his name, the pendulum swung too far on Simmons. The 26-year-old has invested in his mental and physical health over the last year in preparation for an opportunity like the one offered by the Nets. Not only has the spotlight shifted away from Simmons, but he’s finally in a situation where his playstyle makes sense within the context of his team.

Brooklyn will ask a lot from Simmons defensively. He’s all but guaranteed to guard the best player on the opposite team most nights, but given his All-Defensive acumen, it shouldn’t be a problem. The 2020 NBA steals leader adds a crucial layer to last year’s 19th-ranked defense: Switching. At this stage of their careers, Kevin Durant and LaMarcus Aldridge have no business switching onto the perimeter. Simmons will be tasked with filling that gap after Bruce Brown signed with Denver.

Offensively, Simmons can facilitate dribble handoffs or pick-and-roll sets for Brooklyn’s bevy of scoring guards and knockdown shooters. He still shouldn’t be expected to shoot the ball, but Simmons is always a threat to score in transition or make something happen near the rim. Still, his offensive focus will likely be on passing instead of scoring, which might unlock his scoring upside once the team’s confidence and chemistry grow.

Ben Simmons has a shot to transform his narrative and put the NBA back on notice.