Kevin Garnett Might Be The Only Person Who Can Save Ben Simmons
Things didn't exactly work out all that well for Ben Simmons this season. He did play 42 games this season after missing all of last year, but none of the basketball we saw was all that insprising. Sure there would be moments where he would lead a break and show his elite playmaking/ability to read the floor. Maybe we'd see him have a strong defensive possession locking someone up in isolation. But on the whole, Simmons gave the Nets pretty much nothing.
Where the Nets go from here is anyone's question, but what we do know is Simmons has plenty of guaranteed years left on his current deal. The Nets are still feisty, they didn't exactly tank like many thought they would after the Kyrie/KD trades, but you also can't have a max player giving you zero production. Either find a way to trade him, or find a way to snap him back into at least the player he was before he decided to not dunk a basketball against Trae Young.
If there's one guy that can maybe scare Simmons straight, perhaps it's Kevin Garnett
If I know anything in life, it's that when Kevin Garnett talks you listen. It can be about anything really, that rule is universal. But when the topic is basketball and the NBA? Yeah, KG is that guy. Listen to him in that rant! I'm both terrified and ready to run through a brick wall all at the same time. That's the KG I know and love and is a feeling I haven't felt in 15 years.
The best part is, where's the lie? He's right too when he says Simmons should play Summer League and shit. I mean there's no way that would ever happen with a player of his stature and tenure in the NBA, even if it should. Ben Simmons has the basketball yips, it's pretty clear. Summer League is a hell of a drug, and it can completely change your confidence. He needs no pressure reps, not IG videos of him making a wide open 3PA.
The big question is about what KG said in the beginning. He wants Ben Simmons to go find his love of the game. I don't think KG has considered that there's a possibility that Simmons doesn't give a shit. I don't know if that's the case, and maybe it's unfair to assume, but it sure as shit doesn't feel like it.
Anyways, love KG. I'll die for KG. I'd say this was all for nothing and will fall on deaf ears, but you know what they say…