Simmons preparing for NBA return after year out

Ben Simmons' potential return after a year away could provide a significant boost to any team's playmaking and defensive versatility, if he can recapture his All-Star form. His absence has been a major storyline, with the Nets struggling to find consistent offensive flow, ranking 24th in offensive rating last season. Teams will be watching closely to see if Simmons can integrate effectively and contribute positively without re-aggravating his back issues.