Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons and his representation, Klutch Sports, are mutually parting ways, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne. Simmons and Clutch have been working together since Simmons was drafted number one overall out of LSU in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. More to the point, Shelburne points out how Klutch was the one who negotiated Simmons’ five-year, $177 million extension in 2019.
According to Shelburne, Simmons and Clutch are parting ways because Simmons needs a fresh start. The Aussie has played in just 42 of a possible 70 games for the Nets this season due to a variety of injuries, including the knee and back soreness that has him out right now.
This season comes on the heels of Simmons holding out for the first half of last season as a member of the 76ers because he did not want to play for the team anymore, citing mental health issues. Simmons was traded to Brooklyn around last season’s trade deadline, but missed the rest of the season after having back surgery. Nets head coach Jacque Vaughn recently said that Simmons is progressing in his injury rehabilitation, but does not have a timetable for his return.
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Story originally appeared on Nets Wire