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Ben Simmons is back at the Wells Fargo Center for the second time since getting traded to the Brooklyn Nets in February 2022. It will be the first time he faces his former All-Star teammate Joel Embiid.
The Sixers beat the Nets 115-106 at the Wells Fargo Center on November 22. Ben Simmons, who was being showered with boos all game, finished with 11 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds in 21 minutes. Embiid did not play due to a left foot sprain.
Sixers fans have not let go of their disdain for Simmons. They booed him just as loudly as they did when he returned to the arena a few months back.
Here's what it sounded like when Simmons' name was announced over the PA system during player introductions:
The boos were so loud that they almost drained out the PA announcer's voice. We've gathered some of the most hilarious reactions from fans on social media:
Prior to the game, there were questions about Embiid's availability. Luckily for Philly fans, their star center is playing in tonight's game. The Nets, on the other hand, are still without Kevin Durant. He's recovering from an MCL sprain that he suffered against the Miami Heat.
With Ben Simmons' play this season, it's clear that the Sixers won the trade
It's been almost a year since Ben Simmons was traded to the Nets. His offensive productivity has fallen off his cliff. The three-time All-Star has averaged 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists in his career. He's also shot 56% from the field.
Since his return from injury, he has lost his aggressiveness with the ball. The Australian guard is averaging just 7.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists in 35 games. He's also making $35.4 million this season. He is not living up to his contract.
Comparing his stats with Harden's, it's evident that the Sixers won the trade. While the Nets are still learning how to use Simmons on offense, Harden has thrived in Philadelphia. 'The Beard' is averaging 21.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 11.2 assists for the 76ers this season.
Whether the 2017-18 Rookie of the Year will return to form is still up in the air. For now, all the Nets can do is hope that he figures it out.
