Ben Simmons’ agent, Bernie Lee, is now taking the blame for his client’s inability to stay on the floor due to ongoing back issues.
It’s just the latest twist in the ongoing saga that is Ben Simmons’ strange career.
“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.
“In the year I have worked with Ben he has taken less than seven days off. In my almost 20 years doing this (it) isn’t something I’ve seen. So the thought that he is doing everything asked of him but not getting the results is something that in no way shape or form sits right with me, and I am committed to finding him the right people and the right answers and we will.”
Simmons, acquired by the Nets in the 2021-22 season, has appeared in only 57 games for the team. Unfortunately, persistent back issues, originating from his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, have limited him to just 15 games in the 2023-24 season.
Despite being a three-time All-Star and one-time All-NBA selection in Philadelphia, Simmons’ performance has sharply declined in Brooklyn. Currently, he is averaging a mere 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game this season, with his scoring capabilities essentially disappearing.
The Nets are committed to Simmons’ $40.3 million salary for the upcoming season, which marks the final year of his five-year, $177.2 million deal signed with the Sixers. According to Lee, Simmons’ team plans to finish out the current season before dedicating the offseason to intensive efforts aimed at restoring him to peak performance.
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