Nets guard Ben Simmons says he's 'feeling incredible' weeks after starting rehab from back surgery

Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons is preparing to come back with a vengeance next season. Simmons offered optimism about his return Thursday, saying he was "feeling incredible" after being cleared to start rehab following back surgery.

Simmons posted an image on his Instagram story in which he's sitting in front of his Nets locker. He wrote, "feeling incredible" on the picture.

Simmons missed the entire 2021-22 NBA season due to a holdout, mental health issues and a back injury. He was traded from the Philadelphia 76ers to the Nets at the trade deadline, but did not suit up for his new team due back issues.

Simmons underwent surgery on his back in May. He was cleared to begin rehabbing from the injury in early June. If Thursday's post is any indication, the rehab process is going well for Simmons.

Ben Simmons facing critical season with Nets

It will be important for Simmons to hit the ground running once he finally suits up for the Nets. Simmons hasn't played in a professional game since a 2020-21 playoff loss to the Atlanta Hawks. Simmons received criticism for his performance in that series. He passed up easy shot opportunities and barely shot at all in the fourth quarter of close games. Both Joel Embiid and 76ers coach Doc Rivers seemingly questioned Simmons' ability following that playoff series loss.

Those comments led to bad blood between Simmons and the 76ers. Simmons requested a trade in the offseason, but the 76ers did not budge. Simmons initially held out of training camp, losing salary to remain away from the team. He eventually reported, feuded with the team and then missed time due to both his mental health and a back injury.

The 76ers eventually dealt Simmons to the Nets for James Harden. Simmons did not play a game for the Nets and decided to undergo back surgery after speaking with doctors.

The Nets need Simmons to return and play at a high level next season. Simmons still has three seasons left on his contract, and will make over $35 million each year. If he can't reach his previous levels, it will be tough for the Nets to get rid of that contract, especially considering the way things ended in Philadelphia.