Brooklyn Nets coach Jacque Vaughn confirmed on Tuesday that his team has shut down Ben Simmons for the remainder of the season. This decision comes as the 26-year-old continues to struggle with a nerve injury in his back as well as other back and knee-related setbacks.
“Ben will not be joining us the rest of the year and through the playoffs,” Vaughn announced. “After consulting with our doctors, multiple specialists, he’s just going to begin a rehab program. Our doctors and the specialists feel and think that he’ll have a full recovery so that starts now.”
Simmons did not play last season as he waited for a trade away from the Philadelphia 76ers, however, a back injury further limited his ability to perform. Simmons later underwent back surgery before being traded to the Brooklyn Nets before the February 2022 deadline.
Having missed 33 games this season, Simmons will not undergo any further surgery, with the Nets’ medical team instead recommending that he take time out to allow his body to recover.