Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons put in a decent performance (on multiple counts) in Thursday’s 109-98 loss to the Boston Celtics. He had 9 rebounds, 13 assists, 2 steals and 1 block, but also had 0 points on 3 shots.<\/p>\n
It was clear that Simmons could do whatever he wanted as long as it didn’t involve stealing the ball. It was a consistent theme. The match was nationally televised on his TNT, so Simmons was on stage for more people to see what he was doing than just people living in New York City.<\/p>\n
The weakening of the Nets offense in the fourth quarter made it even more apparent that Simmons wasn’t shooting. Here’s what Charles Barkley had to say about Simmons’ lack of shooting\/scoring:<\/p>\n
\n“Reggie (Miller) said during the game that his (Simmons) numbers should be up without Kevin Durant. He’s the second best player on the team. He can’t score. It’s difficult for Ernie (Johnson).”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n
Here’s what Shaquille O’Neal had to say about Simmons’ performance in the loss.<\/p>\n
\n\n“When you’re touted as a great player, you have to do everything. Yes, he had the assists and the rebounds, but you have the ability to score and you have to be offensive.” didn’t even see the basket.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n
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