Ben Simmons’ absence for the Brooklyn Nets is set to extend for several more weeks.
The Nets on Sunday morning (all times AEDT) confirmed Simmons has had an epidural injection to assist in his recovery from a nerve impingement in the lower left side of his back, with the Aussie star to be re-evaluated in two weeks.
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“As part of his planned rehab, Ben Simmons received an epidural injection to aid in the overall recovery in his lower back and continues to improve,” the Nets said.
“Simmons will continue with treatment and strengthening exercises while gradually increasing basketball activity. His status will next be updated in approximately two weeks.”
It’s a concerning update considering Simmons has been out since early November with the injury and has a history of lower back issues including a heavily restricted 2022/23 campaign.
He was shut down after the All-Star Break last season due to a nerve impingement in his back, having already missed 33 games before then with knee and back issues.
Nets coach Jacque Vaughn revealed in recent days Simmons had been involved in the team’s meetings and film sessions and that it’d provide a more concrete update on his status in due course.
Simmons, 27, has also committed to representing Australia on the international stage for the first time at the Paris Olympics next year.
The three-time All-Star has played six games this season, averaging 6.5 points, 10.8 rebounds and 6.7 assists for the 9-9 Nets, who have battled injuries to several key stars.
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