The return of Kyrie Irving this Sunday against the Grizzlies was interrupted by the performance of Ben Simmons. With 22 points on 11/13 shooting, 8 rebounds and 5 assists in 35 minutes, the Australian played his most successful game in a Nets uniform. After a more than sluggish start, Simmons returns to the window. Averaged 5.2 points on 5 attempted shots in his first nine games, the former All Star has 16 points, 8.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists in his last three games. It’s simple enough, Simmons scored more points in those 3 games (48) than in his entire start to the season (47). A good omen before returning to his former team the Sixers on Tuesday. A trip to Philadelphia that will be carefully scrutinized because his departure was tiring. But no pressure from the Nets player who declared his love for his former city:
I’m ready to play on Tuesday. In Philadelphia, I know what to expect. One thing about Philly fans, they are awesome. They are irreducible. I respect them as much as the city. It is a sports city. I was 18 when I arrived in Philadelphia, so it’s really the only place I’ve ever lived as an adult. People don’t know this, but many of my best friends are from Philadelphia. My brother still lives there. So whatever the context and whatever happens, I love this city very much. Can’t wait to go there and play.
Currently, ninth in the Eastern Conference tied with New York, the Nets need the production of Ben Simmons. Finally fully booked, the team must make a run to regain the top spot and undo the non-sporting issues that have rotted at the start of the season. Against Memphis, Simmons started as a kingpin. Even if he suffered from the power of Steven Adams, the Australian has a plus/minus of +19 on the match. A positive impact because Simmons didn’t hesitate to drive taking up the space available to him. An attitude that he will absolutely have to maintain from now on.
It will take some time. I’m just trying to find consistency. Stay focused on what I can do. I know what I can carry, I know what I’m capable of. And I’m not surprised that I play better.
