Ben Simmons returned to the lineup for the Sixers on Monday night, something that helped end a four-game losing streak. Simmons, who missed time with a non-COVID-related illness, said it was frustrating that he wasn’t able to assist the team during the losing streak. The All-Star also touched on his frustration with those who focus heavily on his scoring, admitted that it’s something that bothered him in the past.
“At times, it probably did because I was probably too focused on what other people were thinking,” Simmons told FortyEightMinutes and other media via zoom on Monday. “But I know what my value is to this team. I know that I’m a huge part of this team. And if you know basketball, you see it when I’m out. It is what it is.”
Coach Doc Rivers, speaking to FortyEightMinutes and other media before the game, said it was Ben’s offense that the Sixers missed the most during his time off the court.
The former LSU Tiger scored 12 points in his return, making an efficient 6-of-8 buckets from the field. He played just under 23 minutes in the blowout win, though he was still able to stuff the stat sheet, accumulating four assists, three rebounds, three steals, and two blocks vs. Oklahoma City.
“Everyone plays their role, and I’m playing my role right now,” Simmons said. “I’m trying to win.”
