"Can that player re-appear with the Nets? Whether or not Kevin Durant is gonna be there or not?" - NBA analyst cites 3x All-Star as major determinant for the Nets' performance in the upcoming season

NBA reporter Nick Friedell stated that Ben Simmons is one player that he is looking forward to seeing in the upcoming season.

The Australian is expected to return to full-court action for the Brooklyn Nets. He moved to the team at the trade deadline after a long battle with the Philadelphia 76ers. Simmons was expected to play for the Nets, but he suffered a back injury that ruled him out of last season.

Heading into the 2022-23 season, a lot of attention will be on the Australian. He was harshly criticized by many for his untimely exit from the 76ers. The Nets, however, have shown huge faith in him and his talents. Speaking on NBA Today, Friedell said:

"I'll stick in Brooklyn and say, 'I wanna see what happens with Ben Simmons,' because we saw what kind of player he can be when he's at his best, when he feels good here [head] and he feels good physically.

"But can that player re-appear with the Nets? Whether or not Kevin Durant is gonna be there or not, whatever happens with Simmons is gonna go a long way towards whatever type of team Nets are gonna be next season."

Apart from the controversial season he had last year, Ben Simmons has had a stellar career so far. He has notched up three NBA All-Star and multiple All-Defensive selections in just four active seasons. His elite passing ability and defensive solidity makes him a valuable player to have on the court.

The Nets would certainly want him to be at his best next season. They are currently in a big fix as both Durant and Irving could potentially leave the team.

Amidst all of that, their only ray of hope is the return of Ben Simmons. If he can replicate performances from his early days in Philly, the Nets could make a lot of noise in the NBA.

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Is Ben Simmons the right fit with the Brooklyn Nets?

Boston Celtics v Brooklyn Nets

Ben Simmons is one of the best young talents in the NBA. His ability to get it done on both ends of the floor is a great advantage for any team he plays for. The former number one overall pick is not known for his shooting, but his teammates seem to have no problem with that.

Simmons is around the best set of players in Brooklyn. While there are uncertainties surrounding Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, many believe the two stars will be part of the Nets next season.

In Kyrie and KD, the team have two of the best offensive players in the NBA. They don't have much to worry about there, but have struggled on defense.

That is where Simmons will come into the picture. The two-time All-Defensive first-team selection can guard all positions and will provide defensive solidity to the team.

Next season is certainly going to be a big one for Ben Simmons. He will be looking to prove that he is one of the best in the league when he's in the right frame of mind.