The Brooklyn Nets surprised everyone with their quick exit from the playoffs. Durant and Irving both had bad shooting nights and were struggling defensively. Ben Simmons, who hasn’t played for a while, was expected to play Game 4 but did not play because of a sore back.

Fans around the league are questioning Simmons’ availability. Ben last played in the 2021 playoffs when the Sixers lost to the Hawks in the second round. Simmons and the Sixers parted ways earlier this season as he was traded to the Nets. BJ Armstrong, the 3-time champion, had a deep perspective on Simmons’ situation.

Ben Simmons was faking his back injury

Fans and critics were skeptical of Ben’s injury, as his absence caused the fans to believe that he was making excuses. After his injury update before game 4, fans were doubtful of his situation. Though no one can’t make a proper prediction if Simmons had played, as this would’ve been his first game in almost a year. BJ Armstrong believes that Ben’s situation is affecting not only the team but the entire NBA community.

Armstrong said, “Now you put in the fact of whatever is going on with Ben Simmons, okay whatever is going on. And we both know, the best ability is availability.”

This is completely relatable in the case of Ben Simmons. There are players who are not as dedicated to the team as they should be. They are simply sitting on contracts and don’t seem to play games. Armstrong said that it doesn’t matter how the player performs, but showing up to games and doing the best is how the player can earn respect. He also reminded everyone of Michael Jordan’s consistency.

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Unlike Simmons, Michael Jordan was the most consistent player ever

In all the six championship seasons, Jordan missed a total of 6 games. Though he was suspended in one of them. Not only playing the most games but also being consistent with his performance, Jordan was a complete player. For Jordan, it was as if he had an obligation to play every game like his last and give the fans something to remember.

READ MORE: NBA Twitter Goes Wild After Nets Announce Massive Ben Simmons News

Simmons will return next season for the Nets. Though his absence caused a drama indeed, accusing him of making excuses.

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