Nets expect Ben Simmons to be ready for training camp after back surgery
This season, over 15 games, Ben Simmons had an average of 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists.
NEW YORK (AP) — Ben Simmons has had back surgery for the second time in three years, with he and the Brooklyn Nets hoping this procedure will provide the relief he needs to complete a full season.
The Nets announced that Simmons underwent a microscopic partial discectomy on Thursday to relieve a pinched nerve in his lower back. The operation took place at UHealth Jackson Memorial Medical Center, with Dr. Timur Urakov performing the surgery and Dr. Barth Green consulting.
Ben Simmons Medical Update:
Brooklyn Nets guard/forward, Ben Simmons, had a microscopic partial discectomy earlier today. The successful procedure was carried out by Dr. Timur Urakov and was aimed at relieving the nerve compression in Simmons’ lower back. Dr. Urakov worked in consultation with Dr. Barth Green during the procedure which took place at…
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) March 14, 2024
The top pick of the 2016 NBA draft is anticipated to fully recover in time for next season’s training camp. Since the Nets got him from Philadelphia in the 2021-22 season, he has only participated in 57 games.
Simmons injured his back while trying to get back into shape following his trade, as he didn’t play for the 76ers at the start of that season due to mental health issues. After the season concluded, he underwent a microdiscectomy, a surgical procedure to remove a small piece of a herniated disc.
In the 2022-23 season, Simmons only participated in 42 games before being benched in March due to a nerve impingement in his lower back. The same injury recurred just six games into the current season, limiting his participation to a mere 15 games. This included a period where he missed 38 consecutive games.
Last week, the Nets announced that the three-time All-Star would not play for the rest of the season and would instead pursue treatment options.
Simmons concluded with averages of 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. Approximately $40 million remains on his contract for one more year.
