BEN SIMMONS: THE NBA’S CONTROVERSIAL DESK JOB
Ben Simmons, the enigmatic point forward for the Brooklyn Nets, has been making headlines with his vibrant fashion choices and his new role as a benchwarmer. While some fans may find this frustrating, Simmons’ presence on the sidelines has actually improved his public image among his fellow professionals. In fact, he now embodies the ideal NBA player in the eyes of many.
Simmons’ return to the Nets has coincided with the NBA’s 65-game rule, which aims to combat load management but has had unintended consequences. Take Tyrese Haliburton, for example. Despite being an All-Star starter and a key player for the Indiana Pacers, Haliburton may be ineligible for All-NBA teams if he misses more than three games. This could cost him a whopping $40 million.
The NBA’s attendance policy has also had a negative impact on the earning potential of its star players. Health issues can prevent players from earning individual accolades, leading to capped earnings for arbitrary reasons. For instance, if Haliburton plays 65 games and earns All-NBA honors, his contract extension will start at 30 percent of the salary cap. However, if he falls short of the mark, he’ll only start at 25 percent.
The league’s aggressive stance against load management has forced injured players to make tough decisions. Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers, for example, rushed back into the lineup despite his unreliable leg. He ended up leaving the game early after sustaining an injury. This highlights the difficult position that players are put in when it comes to their health.
Simmons’ recent battle with the 76ers to recoup part of his salary from the 2021-22 season showcases the importance of player preservation in the current climate. He faced criticism for his limited team activities and was the subject of many jokes. Even after being traded to the Nets, his back issues continued to plague him.
Despite these setbacks, Simmons made a triumphant return to the court, showcasing his unique value when healthy. However, his recent injury has once again put his future in question. Nevertheless, Simmons is a symbol of the physical sacrifice that NBA players make and why they should fight against the league’s anti-load management rule.
The biggest lesson from Simmons’ journey is that questioning player injuries is senseless. The 65-game rule is deeply flawed and needs to be reevaluated. Simmons should be a leading candidate in the next NBPA elections, advocating for the rights of players and their long-term health.
The NBA’s own commissioned study has even contradicted the effectiveness of load management in preventing injuries. It’s clear that the league needs to rethink its approach to player health and find a middle ground that benefits both the players and the game.
Simmons’ resilience in the face of backlash against injury management is commendable. If he and a group of player representatives can challenge the 65-game rule with the same determination he had in his fight against the 76ers, the NBA will have no choice but to address the issue of long-term player health.
In conclusion, Ben Simmons may have a desk job on the sidelines, but his impact on the NBA goes far beyond the court. He represents the struggles that players face in preserving their bodies and fighting for their rights. It’s time for the league to listen and make changes for the betterment of the game.
