Ben Simmons' latest setback didn't sit well with the Brooklyn Nets organization. As everyone knows, he was largely expected to suit up for Game 4 of their playoff series against the Boston Celtics, but he ended up getting ruled out due to his back issue.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, several Nets members were disappointed with the development after high hopes that he could make his debut for Brooklyn and play in limited minutes.
Article Continues BelowAfter approximately 10 days of pain-free ramp up following recovery from a herniated disc, Simmons' admission at the team practice facility was met with surprise and disappointment. On the brink of a sweep to the Celtics, the Nets had hoped Simmons would be in uniform and active with the hope of coach Steve Nash using him in limited minutes, sources said.
The Nets are down 3-0 to the Celtics, so it's not surprising why they want every help they can get–even if it's just in spurts.
Ben Simmons' defense would have been a major factor for Brooklyn. If he could at least limit Jayson Tatum, then that could spell the difference between the Nets winning and losing.
Unfortunately, Brooklyn has to look elsewhere for help with Simmons unlikely to play. He could very well be feeling uncomfortable with his back, though the timing is suspect. But then again, the team cannot focus too much on that and instead find ways to get Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving going again.