Ben Simmons Rumors: 'Optimism' Nets Star Could Return During 1st Round of Playoffs

Ben Simmons has been on the sideline for the entire season, but it looks like he might be on his way to the court.

The Brooklyn Nets are optimistic about the availability of a power forward for the first round of the playoffs, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium.

The 25-year-old sat out with the Philadelphia 76ers in order to force a trade. He was sent to the Nets in the James Harden swap.

Simmons was unable to play for the Nets because of a disk issue.

The Australian has always been a divisive player. He is one of the NBA's best and most versatile on-ball defenders, and his playmaking ability and pace in transition make him a one-man fast break.

In the half-court offense, where teams are able to help off him, his refusal to shoot the ball makes him a bigger problem.

In Philadelphia, opponents would block the paint and make it more difficult for him to post up. The idea behind acquiring him in the Harden deal was that it would be less of an issue with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, excellent shooters who naturally space the floor.

The fit isn't perfect but the defense and playmaking he offers makes sense next to Durant and Irving.