Nets’ Ben Simmons Undergoes Second Back Surgery

Brooklyn Nets star Ben Simmons has undergone his second back surgery in three years, with high hopes from both the player and the team for a recovery that will see him through an entire NBA season.

The Nets revealed that Simmons received a microscopic partial discectomy this Thursday to address a pinched nerve in his lower back. The procedure took place at UHealth Jackson Memorial Medical Center, performed by Dr. Timur Urakov with consultation from Dr. Barth Green.

The first overall pick of the 2016 NBA draft, Simmons is on track for a complete recovery in time for next season’s training camp. Since joining the Nets from Philadelphia during the 2021-22 season, Simmons has been limited to just 57 appearances due to ongoing back issues.

His back problems initially flared up as he was working to regain his condition following the trade after sitting out the start of that season with the 76ers due to mental health concerns. He underwent his first microdiscectomy—a procedure to remove part of a herniated disc—after that season ended.

Simmons’ playing time was cut short again in the 2022-23 season after just 42 games due to a nerve impingement in his lower back. This injury made a comeback just six games into the current season, limiting him to a mere 15 games, including one stretch where he missed 38 consecutive games.

Last week, the Nets announced that the three-time All-Star would miss the remainder of the season to explore treatment options. Simmons ends this season with averages of 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. He has one year left on his contract, worth $40.3 million.