The Brooklyn Nets are trying to turn the page with Ben Simmons ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season. With recent surgery, no setbacks in his recovery, and encouraging words from the organization, the team has painted a hopeful picture for his future. But under this optimism lies a calculated strategy—the Nets need to rebuild Ben Simmons’ value, both as a player and as a tradeable asset. Despite their public support, it’s clear they have bigger plans than just his on-court contributions. They are playing a long game to make Simmons a valuable piece in future trades.
NBA Business: The Nets Are Optimistically ‘Delusional’ About Ben Simmons’ Value
The Nets are Rebuilding Ben Simmons’ Value
Simmons’ current contract is an expiring one, standing at $40.33 million over the next season. Given his injury history and inconsistent play since his exit from Philadelphia, this contract has been a burden on the Nets’ books. The team’s most important goal isn’t just to get Simmons back to full health, but to make him attractive enough for other teams to consider in trade talks. If Simmons can prove he’s still capable of All-Star-caliber performances, the Nets can use him to acquire much-needed draft capital.
The front office is well aware that no team will take on Simmons’ contract unless he demonstrates a return to form. His performance needs to rise to the level where teams view him as an asset, not a liability. If the Nets can rehabilitate his value, they could potentially package him in a trade deal for draft picks or pair him with their own draft equity to acquire a disgruntled All-Star. In short, the Nets are betting that a successful rehabilitation of Simmons’ game could unlock significant opportunities for their future.
Strategic Media Day Comments
During media day, the Nets front office, coaching staff, and even Simmons himself struck a positive tone about his readiness for the upcoming season. The emphasis was on his improved physical condition following the March surgery to relieve pressure from his impinged nerve. Simmons reported no setbacks, and his comments exuded confidence about making a strong comeback. The tone from the Nets was optimistic, as they spoke highly of his importance to the team’s defensive structure and his potential to lead the offense in a new role.
However, while these public statements are important for boosting Simmons’ confidence, they also serve another purpose: to signal to the rest of the league that Simmons could be on the verge of a revival. The Nets need teams to see Simmons as a viable asset once again, and positive media narratives are part of that process. While Simmons may play an integral role for the Nets, the real goal is to create a situation where his contract becomes easier to move.
Simmons’ Injury History and Recent Surgery
Simmons’ injury troubles have been a significant factor in his decline. His back issues, specifically nerve impingement, hampered his ability to stay on the court consistently over the past few seasons. In March 2024, Simmons underwent surgery to address the impinged nerve in his back, which had been affecting his performance and availability. This surgery was crucial in getting him to a place where he could potentially return to the level he played at during his peak years.
Simmons has expressed optimism, noting that there have been no setbacks in his recovery. However, the history of his injuries makes it difficult to gauge how reliable he will be throughout the 2024-25 season. The Nets are certainly hopeful, but history has shown that optimism surrounding Simmons’ health has often been short-lived. The real test will be whether he can sustain a high level of performance over a long season.
Supporting Words from Coaches and Teammates
It isn’t just the Nets’ front office building Simmons up—his teammates and coaching staff have also publicly backed him. Dennis Schroder and Dorian Finney-Smith both commented on how important Simmons could be to the team’s success. Schroder highlighted Simmons’ unique versatility on both ends of the floor, while Finney-Smith emphasized his ability to facilitate and defend multiple positions.
Head coach Jordi Fernandez echoed these sentiments, noting that Simmons’ presence could elevate the Nets’ defensive schemes and add more dimensions to their offense. These endorsements serve to reinforce the team’s overall narrative that Simmons is ready to make a significant impact, which again ties into the strategy of rebuilding his trade value.
The Tradeable Asset Angle
The Nets’ optimism may seem delusional on the surface, but there is a calculated strategy behind their approach. The team understands that for Simmons to become a tradeable asset, he needs to show consistency on the court. Even if he isn’t in their long-term plans, his success could open doors to acquiring other valuable assets—whether it be future draft picks or a disgruntled star looking for a new home.
The front office isn’t just playing for the upcoming season; they are also positioning themselves for future flexibility. By elevating Simmons’ confidence and showcasing his abilities, the Nets can position themselves to potentially land a major piece down the line.
A Long-Term Plan by the Nets to Rebuild Ben Simmons’ Value
While the Nets’ public comments about Ben Simmons paint an optimistic picture, the reality is more strategic than it appears. Their goal is to rebuild his value and make his contract tradeable. Whether it’s acquiring draft picks or making a move for an All-Star-level player, Simmons’ revival is key to the Nets’ future plans. Though their optimism might seem delusional to some, it’s a calculated gamble that could pay off if Simmons can return to form.
