-
Tim PontempsESPN
In his first game after he was ultimately not included in a deal James Harden, all Stars Ben Simons He scored a double hat-trick – 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists – in 34 minutes on Thursday to lead the 76ers to a 125-108 win over the Miami Heat in Philadelphia.
After that, he described business conversations as being just a part of life as a player in the NBA.
“I mean, that’s a business,” said Simmons, when asked if he was happy that Harden’s discussions are behind him after the 2018 NBA’s best player was traded with the Brooklyn Nets. “Things like that happen. The only thing I can control is, you know, how I handle my workouts and games and everyday things. So, you know, I’m just trying to be a professional and do the right thing and help my team win victories.”
Philadelphia – whose head of basketball operations, Daryl Morey, acquired Hardin as general manager of the Houston Rockets in the fall of 2012 – and Brooklyn has been the main contenders for the star goalkeeper designation for the past several weeks.
Ultimately, though, Houston chose a Brooklyn package containing a boatload of shots drafted onto one of the Philadelphia in front of Simmons.
When asked Thursday whether he feels the need to discuss what happened with Morrie or anyone else in management, Simmons said he can only control what he can control.
“I come here and work every day,” said Simmons. “So my job is to get better and win victories – all the other things I can’t control. Like I said earlier, all I can control is how I advance with my mindset, with practices and on the ground, and I’ve had a great time tonight. I’m happy. I can play. The game that I love every day at the highest level in the world … There are much worse things happening in the world, so, you know, I am a blessed attitude. If you told me I would never play the game again, that would be a different story. ”
When asked if he would be happy to stay in Philadelphia, Simmons added, “Of course.”
Earlier, Sixers coach Doc Rivers praised Simmons’ defensive efforts on one of the nights he also stole three robberies plus a hat-trick.
“I thought tonight is who every night should be,” said Rivers. “I like the way he played. I liked the way he plays under control. I didn’t force him, he took holes when they were there … He was a presence on the ground for us, not just in the offensive end but on the defensive side as well. That takes us to a level. Different when playing like this. “
