Former champion Kyrie Irving reveals how to make it easy for his Nets teammate Ben Simmons, discussing his preseason debut.
It was D-Day for Ben Simmons, who was returning to the court for the first time in more than 470 days. With all eyes on him, the 26-year-old managed to make an impact, dishing out some impressive assists and throwing buckets, despite playing just 19 minutes.
Ben Simmons debut with the Nets
6 points5 assists4 rebounds3/6 Shots0/2 Free Throwsin 19 minutespic.twitter.com/8zm2yU33TN
– Ballislife.com (@Ballislife) October 4, 2022
Ironically, Simmons made his debut against his old team, the Sixers, after its ugly fallout. Sadly, free throws continue to be an Achilles’ heel for the 6-foot-11 shooting guard, who went 0-2 from the free throw line in his Nets debut, and fans at Barclays Center erupted with booing cries.
Ben Simmons being booed in his stadium after missing 2 free throws.
Looks like it hasn’t skipped a beat pic.twitter.com/5zdMcFVeqf
– Sports stool (@barstoolsports) October 4, 2022
Fortunately for Simmons, he has the support of his superstar teammates, Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, who are looking to make things simpler for the former ROTY.
Also read: “Ben Simmons is 0-2 from the free throw line after 470 days”: NBA Twitter reacts to Australian native Nets debut
After the Nets’ loss to the Sixers, Irving would address the media and discuss how he felt about integrating Simmons into the system.
Kyrie Irving addresses Ben Simmons’ Nets debut.
Having been surrounded by controversy for most of his career, Irving understands Simmons’ situation, aiming to simplify things for the former Sixers point guard. When asked about Big Ben’s comeback against the Sixers, Uncle Drew had this to say.
“Well, every time someone comes back, it will take time. Obviously, we talked about it in the last press session. He told him at halftime, ‘when you play high-level players, regardless of what you hear, we’ll make the game easy for you.’ He will love playing with us, he will love going up and down the court with us. You know, this was the first day, highly anticipated, I’m glad he did well tonight, on some easy baskets, and made some great plays.”
Kyrie Irving discusses Ben Simmons’ return to the court and his integration into Brooklyn’s offense:
“I told him at halftime, ‘when you play with high-level players, regardless of what you hear, we are going to make the game easier for you.’ pic.twitter.com/JT3Ihi3nLV
— Network Videos (@SNYNets) October 4, 2022
Kyrie Irving takes the shooting pressure off Ben Simmons.
Simmons, who will play point guard, will have the services of Irving at his side, who could mask the shooting problems of the former Sixers point guard. If that wasn’t enough, Durant’s presence ensures that Big Ben works in his favor.
Both Irving and KD are in no rush, giving Simmons as much time as he wants to fit into the roster.
Kyrie Irving on the Nets’ integration of Ben Simmons and developing chemistry:
“Just wait till he looks like he’s in All-Star form again, which I know he will be soon.” pic.twitter.com/agIMfxJuug
— Network Videos (@SNYNets) September 29, 2022
Both Kai and KD could hide Big Ben’s shooting deficiency from the floor, given that they are 88.2% and 88.4% from the free throw line, respectively. Therefore, having such skilled players ensures that Simmons focuses on his strengths.
Also read: Claiming peace of mind for money, Ben Simmons buys sprawling $13 million Brooklyn condo
