Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons continues to deal with a lingering back injury that has significantly limited his playing time this season. While Simmons remains day-to-day, his agent, Bernie Lee, has taken responsibility for his client's struggles, highlighting his commitment to finding long-term solutions.

Lee acknowledges his role

"We continue to try and find non-surgical options to allow Ben to move forward on a permanent basis and that is where this is my responsibility and I am (the) one to blame," Lee told Ian Begley of SNY. "When I began working with Ben I made a commitment to him that I would do everything I could to find the right answers and specialists for him to work with (in order) to move forward from the issues he has been having. Clearly it hasn't happened, and that's my responsibility."

Ben Simmons' injury woes

Simmons, a three-time NBA All-Star, has only played in 57 games for the Nets since joining them in 2022. This season, he has been restricted to just 15 appearances due to recurring back issues that began during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Impact on career and Nets' future

These setbacks have significantly impacted Simmons' career trajectory. His scoring average has plummeted to 6.1 points per game in 2023-24, a far cry from his previous performances. Additionally, the Nets, currently sporting a disappointing 24-37 record, are heavily reliant on a healthy Simmons to salvage their season and potentially avoid the consequences of their trade for James Harden, which included sending their first-round pick to the Houston Rockets.

What Next

Lee remains optimistic about Simmons' future, stating that his camp will focus on getting him back to full health during the offseason.

"Come the offseason, we're going to implement some processes and outside input that'll allow him to finally move forward from this ongoing issue and resume his career at the levels he's established prior to being injured," Lee said.

The Brooklyn Nets and their fans will be eagerly awaiting a healthy Ben Simmons on the court, hoping his return can help them turn their season around and potentially rewrite the narrative surrounding the James Harden trade.

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Image credit of New York Post