After a tumultuous stretch in his career, Ben Simmons is ready for a fresh start with the Los Angeles Clippers. The former Brooklyn Nets point guard is gearing up for his debut with his third team in the league after reaching a buyout agreement with the Nets. The Clippers struck a deal with Simmons last week, and he is eager to make an impact with his new team.
“Making the decision to come here, I felt wanted,” Simmons said. “That’s something you want to feel when you go to work.”
Simmons, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 draft, has faced challenges in his career, including injuries, mental health concerns, and a trade demand. After a chaotic stretch with the Philadelphia 76ers, he was finally traded to Brooklyn. However, he struggled to stay on the court with the Nets due to back injuries that required surgery. Now, Simmons is healthy and determined to put the past behind him.
“[It’s] giving someone a fresh start,” Clippers coach Ty Lue said. “It’s always good to get a fresh start and start over. Not worry about the past and what you’ve done in the past. Get to a new place where you know you’re welcome.”
Simmons has shown promise this season with the Nets, averaging 6.2 points and 6.9 assists per game. He will join the Clippers, who are competing for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. Despite his injury history, Simmons is excited to contribute to his new team and leave behind the turbulence of his previous experiences.
“I just want to compete, regardless of all the bulls*** said online,” Simmons said. “I’m here to do that, and playing alongside some of these great players … everyone’s just going to push each other to be better and expect greatness.”