Ben Simmons Set to Return Against Hawks

Ben Simmons is set to return to the Los Angeles Clippers for Friday's game against the Atlanta Hawks after recovering from a left knee injury that kept him out for seven games. Initially deemed unavailable for travel, Simmons has been upgraded to 'available' or 'questionable', indicating a faster-than-expected recovery. Since joining the Clippers from the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons has averaged 5.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in 21.1 minutes per game. The Clippers have a 4-3 record during his absence and have been outperformed during his minutes on the court by 14.4 points per 100 possessions. Norman Powell, another key player, remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. The Clippers are currently eighth in the Western Conference standings, with 16 games left in the regular season.