It seems as if the entire NBA world is down on Ben Simmons.
Draymond Green stepped up to defend the struggling Brooklyn Nets guard Monday. Appearing on Podcast P with Paul George, the Golden State Warriors star said that Simmons is still the same player who went No. 1 overall in the 2016 NBA Draft and starred for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Well, he’s still the same player, save for one critical element.
“You’ve seen people lose confidence in their game, and you’re like, ‘What happened to him?'” Green said. “Like Ben Simmons. Ben Simmons is still the same Ben Simmons we watched dominate in Philly. The only difference between Ben Simmons in Philly and Ben Simmons now, is confidence.
“I know how it feels to lose confidence, I’ve lost confidence in my shot. I feel bad for people who lose their confidence because you’re still the same player. You’re still the same person who could go out there and get 15 assists before someone blinked.”
The 26-year-old Simmons, who went to the Nets in September 2022 in the trade that sent James Harden to the 76ers, averaged a career-low 6.9 points per game last season. He’s been the subject of trade rumors for months, but given his issues, it’s a tough sell for the Nets.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.