Feb 7, 2023; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons (10) reacts after a basket against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Brooklyn Nets Make Ben Simmons Announcement Before Heat Game

Originally posted on Fastbreak on SI | By Ben Stinar | Last updated Feb 7, 2025 2:57 PM ET

On Friday night, the Brooklyn Nets will host the Miami Heat at Barclays Center in New York.

Before the game, ESPN's Shams Charania and Brian Windhorst reported that Simmons is on the verge of being bought out by the Nets.

The three-time NBA All-Star is averaging 6.2 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.9 assists per contest while shooting 54.7% from the field in 33 games.

Via Charania : "Ben Simmons is finalizing a contract buyout with the Brooklyn Nets to become a free agent, sources tell me and @WindhorstESPN. Simmons will meet with the Cavaliers and Clippers starting Friday as he decides his next home."

Ben Simmons is finalizing a contract buyout with the Brooklyn Nets to become a free agent, sources tell me and @WindhorstESPN. Simmons will meet with the Cavaliers and Clippers starting Friday as he decides his next home. pic.twitter.com/guz2MhmJ5A
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 7, 2025

The Nets have now announced that Simmons has been ruled out for Friday's game (and is not with the team).

Via Brian Lewis of The New York Post: "Not surprisingly, Brooklyn has announced Ben Simmons is away from the team. Sources confirm he is working to complete a buyout from the #Nets, which is progressing. He’s looking now at his next options. #NBA"

Not surprisingly, Brooklyn has announced Ben Simmons is away from the team. Sources confirm he is working to complete a buyout from the #Nets, which is progressing. He’s looking now at his next options. #NBA
— Brian Lewis (@NYPost_Lewis) February 7, 2025