‘100 per cent disagree’: Simmons puts on ’masterclass’ as legends clash over Aussie All-Star

Ben Simmons put up one of the crucial unbelievable field scores in NBA historical past because the Brooklyn Nets started life with out Kevin Durant.

The Australian All-Star amassed 13 assists, together with a staggering 10 within the first half, because the Nets went all the way down to the Boston Celtics 109-98 minus Durant who’s sidelined with a knee harm.

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Simmons additionally recorded 9 rebounds however did not register a single level on 0 of three capturing.

He additionally discovered himself in early hassle limiting him to simply 26 minutes.

It is barely the 18th time in NBA historical past a gamers has recorded 13 assists however no factors.

NBA analyst Richard Jefferson lauded Simmons’ play within the first half however urged him to assault the basket extra.

“The pace has been picked up allowing Ben Simmons to play in transition. I’d say half his assists have come on the break,” he mentioned.

“But he needs to look at the rim more. He can’t just rely on Kyrie, Seth Curry and Joe Harris.”

Speaking at halftime, fellow analyst Kenny Smith referred to as out the “misconception” when it got here to Simmons.

“I think there’s such a misconception at times about scoring,” he mentioned.

“Yes he could score more but his biggest value is that he can defend, rebound and pass the ball at pace like no one else can do.

“Yes he can score more, that would be great. But give me 20 assists and 10 rebounds, I don’t care how many baskets you score.”

NBA legend Charles Barkley, nonetheless, was having none of it.

“100 per cent I disagree with Kenny,” he mentioned.

“You can’t go a whole half without scoring.

“It’s almost impossible for a guy that talented to go a whole half without scoring. He ain’t even looking at the basket.”

Simmons defensive efforts have been additionally on show as he helped maintain Celtics celebrity Jayson Tatum to simply 20 factors. The Nets additionally outscored the Celtics by 10 factors when Simmons was on the courtroom.

Elsewhere, Derrick White (15 factors) and Marcus Smart (16 factors) stepped up for the Celtcis in Jaylen Brown’s absence.

For the Nets, Irving lead the road with 24 factors whereas Joe Harris (18 factors) and TJ Warren (20 factors) have been the opposite main contributors.

Speaking after the sport, Simmons addressed his lack of scoring.

“Being assertive, being aggressive and knowing my team needs that,” he mentioned.

“I think I’ve given the ball away too many times. I know I need to get to get buckets and that’s also going to help my teammates and get them going.”

While Simmons lack of factors have been an enormous speaking level, his passing exhibition drew loads of plaudits.