Ben Simmons didn’t travel with the Nets to Philadelphia this week. The Nets cited his rehab routine which continues as the former Sixer tries to return to form after last May’s back surgery. Of course, his lack of visibility helps the Nets avoid distracting questions about the 2022 deadline trade that sent him and other assets to Brooklyn for James Harden who is having a signature season. Moreover, he is not that popular in Philadelphia and no reason to subject him to Sixers fans. One would expect Simmons back on the bench for Games 3 and 4 in Brooklyn, but who knows.
Ben Simmons: the man wasn’t there ... but is
