Ben Simmons focuses on health before considering next NBA contract
ben-simmons-health-over-contract
Free-agent guard/forward Ben Simmons says he will not sign with an NBA team until he feels confident his body can withstand the grind of a full season.
Speaking with The Athletic’s Sam Jane, the three-time All-Star explained that chronic back trouble has affected him “every day” for several years, whether he is on the court, sitting, sleeping or traveling. “People don’t understand that,” Simmons said.
The 27-year-old confirmed to Marc J. Spears of Andscape that he is still targeting a return to the league. However, he told Jane that an extended rehabilitation period made more sense than reporting to training camp at less than full strength.
“I’m about to be 30 years old, and I need to make the best decision for Ben Simmons,” he said. “It’s not fun going out there not being able to move or jump or take hits.”
Simmons, currently training in Los Angeles, added that he expects some observers to question his cautious approach but believes it is the right move for this stage of his career. “Sometimes you have to make a decision based on how you feel and what’s best for yourself,” he noted.
Source: Hoops Wire
