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When the Brooklyn Nets took the Boston Celtics in Game 4 on Monday, there was a key figure missing on their bench: Ben Simmons.
After his interesting wardrobe choice in Game 3 that really stood out from the Nets' bench, Simmons was largely expected to be seen again as the series returned to Boston. Interestingly, however, he was nowhere in sight throughout the contest.
Seth & Drummond fighting for their playoff lives while Ben Simmons dresses up like Willy Wonka pic.twitter.com/bcRDAmpMy3
— dean 🦂 (@DeanScorpion_) April 24, 2022
While everyone already knew he wouldn't play because of a sudden setback in his recovery from back injury, many were actually hoping that he would at least cheer for his Nets teammates. But that wasn't the case on Monday.
Of course, as Ian Begley of SNY.TV reported, Simmons' absence has everything to do with his recent back ailment.
Ben Simmons isn’t on the Nets bench for Game 4 vs. Boston due to his back ailment, per a team official. Simmons had been sitting on the Nets bench in recent games. Steve Nash said earlier Monday that Simmons would be evaluated by team performance staff.
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) April 26, 2022
Ben Simmons was initially projected to suit up for Game 4. However, he was ruled out after reportedly feeling soreness in his back. The Australian playmaker was heavily criticized for the development, with many saying that he has no competitive fire at all.
With the Nets down 3-0 at the time, they could have really used his help.
Sure enough, the backlash will only grow further after his latest vanishing act. Not to mention that with the Nets getting swept by the Celtics, he has put himself in a position to be on the receiving end of more criticisms.
Hopefully, though, Simmons will be ready to suit up for Brooklyn come the 2021-22 season.
