Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons dribbles the ball up the court as Miami Heat forward Jamal Cain defends during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, in Miami. Miami Heat forward Jamal Cain defends Brooklyn Nets forward Mikal Bridges during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023, in Miami.
Player to watch: Simmons. It’s easy to consider the Nets’ superstar era over, except Simmons is still paid like a star and the Nets hope he can still play like one. He never looked comfortable last season after missing the entire 2021-22 season, playing as a forward before falling out of the rotation and eventually not playing at all after the All-Star break. He says he is healthy and has regained his speed and strength, and expects now to regain his old position as a guard, where the No.