1. Ben Simmons is back
Claxton is one of the best defensive centers in the league, and he will pair with one of the league’s best defensive point guards, Ben Simmons. On Monday, Simmons posted a peak Simmons stat line against his former team: eight points, six rebounds, nine assists, three steals, and a block.
BEN SIMMONS WENT OFF ON BOTH ENDS 🤩 pic.twitter.com/3RNdFxVDMx
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 17, 2023
That sequence is precisely what Brooklyn needs out of Simmons. He drops a behind-the-back dime to Spencer Dinwiddie, who drills a three, then immediately runs back on defense, picks off a pass, and slams it home on the other end.
The constant critique of Simmons around the league is that he lacks confidence and needs to let it rip more. It appears as though he has gained confidence and will let it rip more this year. The Australian spent a ton of time in the lab this summer and dropped this sweet fadeaway on Tobias Harris.
Ben Simmons fadeaway. 🔥
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) October 17, 2023
pic.twitter.com/ICpQgqCfyH
Simmons is the most talented player on the Nets roster. If the preseason is any indication, Simmons has a chance to regain his All-Star-level form in 2023-2024.
3 Brooklyn Nets poised for breakout campaigns this season
The Brooklyn Nets have a diverse mix of veteran and young talent, and some players are bound to break out in the 2023-24 season.