Currently, on an 8-game winning streak, the Brooklyn Nets have been on a roll, emerging as one of the strong contenders in the east, especially post their latest win over the Milwaukee Bucks. The supremely skilled duo of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving continue to showcase their ability to score at an elite level.
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However, their recent win against the Bucks had Ben Simmons join the party too. The former Sixers guard showed up on both ends of the floor, with his defense on the Greek Freak being the highlight, limiting the two-time MVP to 0-shots in the 4th quarter.
Ben Simmons tonight:
12 PTS
11 REB
8 AST
3 STL
6-9 FGNets are undefeated when Ben has 10/10. pic.twitter.com/16Gbwzyh3r
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 24, 2022
Despite a double-double, Giannis failed to get the job done. The former DPOY disappeared come crunch time and accounted for seven turnovers in the game.
Addressing the media post-game, the Nets’ leading scorer Durant had nothing but praise for Simmons.
“Ben Simmons was incredible”: Kevin Durant lauds 6ft 10″ guard for putting the clamps on Giannis Antetokounmpo.
It was a great night for Simmons, given his overall performance against the Bucks. The Nets guard had Giannis’ number, putting the clamps on the seven-foot superstar, playing a major role in the latter’s seven turnovers.
Ben Simmons had a day against the Bucks! pic.twitter.com/qgpTUVSETD
— ESPN Australia & NZ (@ESPNAusNZ) December 24, 2022
When asked about Simmons’ performance, teammate KD didn’t hesitate to shower his praise on the three-time All-Star, saying the following.
“He (Simmons) was incredible. 12/11/8 and 3-steals. I think his aggression was good all night. He was able to make life tough.”
Kevin Durant talks about the “incredible” effort on both ends of the floor from Ben Simmons, especially guarding Giannis Antetokounmpo:
“7 turnovers – Ben was the key catalyst for that. We’re going to need that going forward” pic.twitter.com/qaMhYQkmrs
— Nets Videos (@SNYNets) December 24, 2022
Simmons seems to be getting back to his old self if his latest performances are anything to go by.
“Staying aggressive”: Ben Simmons reveals mindset when guarding Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Coming on top against a championship contender like the Bucks is certainly a morale booster, something Simmons would second, calling it a big win.
When asked about guarding Giannis, the Aussie native had the following to say.
“I mean, you know, he’s gonna attack, he’s gonna try to get to the rim. I think overall as a team, we did a great job, containing him, and kind of showing him a lot of bodies, and then from me just being physical.”
Ben Simmons talks about guarding Giannis in tonight’s win. pic.twitter.com/SZvLp5c3Bd
— YES Network (@YESNetwork) December 24, 2022
If Simmons continues to play at this pace, especially on defense, the Nets will have all their loopholes filled, given the team’s offense was never a matter of concern.
Also read: “False Accusation!”: 6ft 10’ Ben Simmons Denies ‘Hook Up’ Rumors With Rapper Megan Thee Stallion