It’s been four NBA seasons since Ben Simmons last played at least 57 games.
He hasn’t been the same player since he forced his way out of Philadelphia, and his contract is currently one of the worst in the league.
That’s why no one buys the hype anymore.
His pictures drenched in sweat and his workout clips in empty gyms knocking down threes aren’t impressive, as we’ve seen the same old story in every offseason for five years now.
Even so, Dorian Finney-Smith still has faith in him.
Recently, the Nets forward claimed that Simmons looked great and healthy and that the Nets could “shake” the NBA with him playing well next season (via NBA Central).
Dorian Finney-Smith says the Nets are going to ‘shake’ the NBA with a healthy Ben Simmons
“People don’t know how healthy Ben [Simmons] is going to be. But we’ve been seeing him for the last four weeks and he looks great. So, if bro gets back on the court I feel like it’s gonna… pic.twitter.com/IX9fbD3LQW
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 3, 2024
Truth be told, it’s easy to understand the skepticism.
Some question his love for the game and mental strength, and he’s not particularly coachable or someone who can be held accountable.
The Nets don’t have a good roster right now, even with Simmons, and chances are most of their veterans — Finney-Smith included — won’t finish the season with them.
Of course, he’s just 28 years old and very talented, so he could still have a big role on the right team.
As for living up to the expectations or his contract, that’s just not likely to happen at this point.
NEXT:
Mikal Bridges Has Honest Admission About Losing In Brooklyn