Nets PG Ben Simmons to have back surgery

The Brooklyn Nets announced point guard Ben Simmons will undergo back surgery to relieve pain from a herniated disc. 

"After consultation with multiple back specialists, it has been determined that the best course of action for Ben's long-term health is for him to undergo surgery," the Nets' release said. "The microdiscectomy procedure, scheduled for Thursday, is designed to alleviate pain caused by the herniated disc in Ben's back. Further updates will be provided following the procedure." 

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Simmons will need three to four months to recover from the surgery but is expected to be ready for next year's training camp. 

Simmons missed the entirety of the 2021-2022 season and has yet to play for the Nets since being traded to Brooklyn by the Philadelphia 76ers in February. The Nets traded away James Harden and Paul Millsap in return for Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond and 2022 and 2027 1st round draft picks. 

The Nets were initially optimistic about Simmons making his debut during its first-round matchup with the Boston Celtics, specifically targeting Game 4 of the best of seven series. However, ahead of Game 4, the Nets reversed course, and Simmons never suited up. 

A three-time all-star, Simmons last played during the 2020-21 season, averaging 14.3 PPG, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists in 58 regular-season games with the 76ers. 

Simmons has averaged 15.9 PPG, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists in four seasons in the NBA for his career.