Ben Simmons is taking things each day in turn on the new-look Nets

 

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Ben Simmons is taking things each day in turn on the new-look Nets

Ben Simmons, once the focal point of conversations surrounding potential greatness and crushing scrutiny, is now the face of quiet determination on a team that's also searching for its new identity—the Brooklyn Nets. No longer surrounded by the hype that accompanied his early years, Simmons seems content to take things one day at a time, a step-by-step approach that aligns with the new ethos of a Brooklyn squad that’s rebuilding after a rollercoaster ride of superstars and title aspirations.

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The Nets have undergone a seismic shift in the past couple of seasons, moving from a collection of big-name talents like Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden to a team that now embraces versatility, youth, and the willingness to grow from the ground up. For Simmons, who has dealt with his share of struggles on and off the court, this shift couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s as if both the player and the team are standing at the same crossroads, ready to redefine who they are.

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Simmons' past struggles have been well-documented: from his challenges at the free-throw line, his hesitance to shoot beyond the paint, and the loud criticism that followed him from Philadelphia to Brooklyn. Injuries and mental health challenges further complicated his journey. But now, with a new season upon him, Simmons is focusing less on the noise and more on what he can control—himself. In practices and scrimmages, he’s back to doing what he does best: facilitating, defending, and pushing the tempo. His every movement seems measured, not by the expectations of others but by his own growing sense of self-belief.

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The Nets themselves look different, no longer constructed around a ‘win-now’ mentality. They’ve shed the spotlight and glamour that comes with superstar egos and championship-or-bust expectations. In their place stands a core of hungry young talents like Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, and Nic Claxton, players who are as gritty as they are skilled. Simmons has seamlessly integrated into this environment, becoming not just a playmaker but a veteran voice that younger players can lean on. He’s embracing the mentor role, guiding his teammates with a blend of tough love and quiet confidence.

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As Simmons works to rediscover his own game, he seems to be finding joy in the process rather than just the result. His recent statements in interviews reflect a grounded approach: he’s not looking too far ahead or too far behind; he’s living in the moment, taking each day as it comes. There’s a sense of humility in his voice, a willingness to accept the challenges that lie ahead without dwelling on the baggage of the past.

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And perhaps that’s what makes this version of Simmons the most dangerous to opponents—he's focused on the present. He knows that he doesn’t need to be the face of the franchise or put up 30 points a night to make a difference. His contributions on defense, his court vision, and his ability to control the game's pace are the things that make him a unique asset. He’s rediscovering his strengths, turning them into the cornerstone of his new role with the Nets.

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In scrimmages, you can see glimpses of the player who once dominated the court with his versatility and sheer athleticism. He’s attacking the rim with confidence, threading impossible passes to open teammates, and locking down on defense like he did during his best days in Philadelphia. His smile seems more genuine now, his interactions with teammates more relaxed and authentic. There's no longer the weight of expectation pressing down on his shoulders; instead, there's just the game of basketball, pure and simple.

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For Simmons, each game this season is an opportunity—a chance to prove to himself that he's still that same player with the potential to change the course of a game, but also a chance to redefine what success looks like. He’s focusing on small victories, whether it's hitting his free throws consistently, knocking down an open jumper without hesitation, or simply making the right read in a fast break. It’s these daily wins that are giving him the confidence to move forward, piece by piece, rebuilding not just his game but also his legacy.

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The Brooklyn Nets and Ben Simmons are both on parallel paths of rediscovery. They’re no longer in a hurry to prove anything to the world. For Simmons, it's about finding his rhythm, reclaiming his joy for the game, and understanding that progress is often slow but worth the wait. For the Nets, it’s about building a team that values chemistry over star power, growth over quick fixes, and resilience over flash.

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As they take things one day at a time, Simmons and the Nets have an opportunity to write a new story together—one that doesn’t focus on what they were supposed to be, but on what they’re becoming. And sometimes, that journey, full of small steps and quiet moments, is the most powerful story of all.

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