Why Ben Simmons’ return will actually help Celtics

by **bobheckler** Sat Apr 23, 2022 2:35 pm

https://www.audacy.com/weei/sports/celtics/why-ben-simmons-return-will-actually-help-celtics

Why Ben Simmons’ return will actually help Celtics

Ben Simmons is back? Who knew he was even gone?

By Nick Friar
WEEI 93.7
April 21, 20229:24 am

And just like that, Game 3 has turned into a must-win for the Celtics.

No, not because Ben Simmons is going to create problems for the Celtics if he makes his 2021-22 debut in Game 4. Far from it, actually.

How funny would it be if the Nets went down 3-0 in this series, only to have Simmons return for one game? Sure, sweeping Brooklyn is a lot to ask, but it’s very much in play at this stage — even with his return looming.

As for Simmons’ potential impact, Celtics fans know all too well what the overhyped 2016 first-overall pick is capable of. He brings a lot on the defensive end and offers next to nothing on offense. Sure, he’s a big ball-handler who can drive and kick, but he makes defending the perimeter a lot easier because he’s less of a threat from long-range than Steve Nash is right now. As much as Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving are Brooklyn’s greatest threats, the Nets’ ability to go off from deep as a team is almost as big of an issue (they’re 10th in 3-point percentage).

And while Simmons’ defense could make life a lot harder for Boston in some ways, his lack of familiarity with this group, along with their lack of familiarity with him, could lead to quite a few mistakes.

In time, Simmons could prove to be a great acquisition for the Nets. He does fit in well if Irving is open to playing the role of shooting guard on offense, which he did with James Harden. But at this stage, Simmons won’t be able to make the impact Brooklyn needs from him.

Bob

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