NBA legends back Ben Simmons to shine after injury layoff

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 06:32 · Archive

NBA greats Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin believe fit-again Ben Simmons can perform at a high level this season.

NBA Hall of Famers Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin have backed Ben Simmons to perform at a high level in his return to the court. The Australian basketball player sat out all of last season and did not play basketball during his time off, prompting criticism from some observers about his commitment to the sport. Simmons, 30 and the former No.1 draft pick, rejected these claims, insisting his extended break was purely about recovering his body and mind after being plagued by injuries throughout his decade-long career.

Simmons has signed a one-year deal with the Sacramento Kings worth $US3.5 million and is expected to start alongside rookie Darius Acuff and fellow veteran Zach LaVine when the Kings open their regular season away to the Los Angeles Clippers on 22 October. He was a three-time All-Star from 2019 to 2021 before injuries took hold.

Nowitzki said Simmons had shown encouraging signs in the pre-season and appeared physically ready. However, Nowitzki suggested the player may have lost some passion for basketball during his layoff, which could affect his performance. 'Hopefully he's excited to play. I think that was some of the issue,' Nowitzki said at the NBA on Prime launch in New York.

How it is being reported

• NBA legends' hope for Simmons amid doubtsNBA greats Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin believe a fit-again Ben Simmons is capable of performing at a high level as long as his body and mind play ball.The West Australian · 16 Oct, 06:03
• NBA legends' hope for Simmons amid doubtsNBA greats Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin believe a fit-again Ben Simmons is capable of performing at a high level as long as his body and mind play ball.Perth Now · 16 Oct, 06:03

In this story: Ben Simmons · Dirk Nowitzki · Blake Griffin · Sacramento Kings · Los Angeles Clippers

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