Ben Simmons returns for Clippers following one-game absence

Ben Simmons makes return to Clippers lineup following one-game absence

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Garret Schnitker | Last updated Feb 27, 2025 9:01 AM ET

Los Angeles Clippers forward Ben Simmons has appeared in three games for his new team since being bought out by the Brooklyn Nets. In three games for L.A. thus far, Simmons is averaging 8.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 2.0 steals and 0.7 blocks per game. The two-time All-Defensive team member has also brought defensive versatility and an ability to push the pace in transition.

Simmons missed L.A.'s last game, a 106-97 loss against the Detroit Pistons, on Monday. His absence was due to left-knee injury management, per the Clippers.

The game in Detroit was the second in as many nights for the Clippers, and Simmons has yet to be cleared to play back-to-backs. The last time Simmons played on consecutive nights was in January, 2023 for the Nets.

Availability has been an issue for Simmons in his NBA career, particularly in the last five seasons where has played just 208 regular-season games. Ahead of facing the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, the Clippers made an announcement regarding Simmons’ status for the contest.

The LA Clippers report that:

- Norman Powell is still out at Chicago (knee)
- Kawhi Leonard is back
- Ben Simmons is back
- Two-ways and Cam Christie in the G
— Law Murray (@LawMurrayTheNU) February 25, 2025

After the game against Chicago, a 122-117 victory in which Simmons played 18 minutes with six points, eight rebounds and eight assists, the Clippers will return to Los Angeles for two games against the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena.

With only 25 games remaining in the regular season, the Clippers are hoping to turn things around and make a late push to keep themselves in the sixth seed in the Western Conference, avoiding the play-in.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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