Published 01/22/2023, 11:28 PM EST
Since the injury to Kevin Durant, the Brooklyn Nets have taken a plunge in almost every aspect of the game. The team went from the second position in the Eastern Conference to the fourth, losing four consecutive games. Not only that, the Nets took a dip in offensive rating, field goal, three-point, and free throw shooting percentage as well. However, a recent claim by NBA analyst Jalen Rose had fans slamming Ben Simmons.
Nets point guard Ben Simmons has been in and out of the rotation for the past few games due to issues in his back. This has led to a pretty lackluster performance from him on the floor as the team struggles to win games in Durant’s absence.
Jalen Rose slams Ben Simmons
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According to ESPN analyst Jalen Rose, “Ben Simmons is stealing money [from the Nets], ski mask and gloves.” Rose agreed with Stephen A. Smith on his Simmons take and also mentioned that the Australian has 119 fouls as opposed to his 113 baskets.
Jan 19, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons (10) celebrates a basket with teammates on the bench against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Fans too were seemingly on board with what Rose had to say about Simmons as some felt that he was a liability for the team.
One fan tweeted, “Paying a walmart brand draymond the max is outrageous he def stealing money.”
Here are some more reactions from NBA Twitter:
The majority of fans seemed to be in agreement with what Rose said, while few came to Simmons’ aid.
The perspective changes once again
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Ben Simmons was able to turn the tables on people’s perspectives of him. When Simmons came to Brooklyn, fans and analysts slammed the 6’10″ point guard over multiple facets of his game.
However, Simmons was able to prove those people wrong as he had a good string of games for some time. However, injuries are something that has kept Simmons from arguably reaching his full potential with the Nets.
Watch This Story – Damian Lillard, Ben Simmons, and other NBA stars who will be trending during trade talks
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Kyrie Irving has tried his best to carry the team in KD’s absence, but he will likely need others around him like Simmons to step up and make it count when it matters most.
What did you make of Jalen Rose’s comments on Ben Simmons? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.