Beware an unsatisfied Simmons
“I’M not satisfied” — this is the three-word warning that will have Miami wary of Ben Simmons heading into Game 2 today.
Simmons starred in his NBA Playoffs debut for Philadelphia, dropping a doubledouble as he led the 76ers to a commanding 130-103 victory.
The Australian sensation also provided 14 assists, the second-most by a rookie in his maiden playoff match since legendary Laker — Magic Johnson (16).
Simmons may be in sizzling form, but the Melbourne-born guard is far from content. This means danger for the Heat, who will be desperate to avoid a 0-2 deficit against the 76ers before the series moves to Miami.
It comes as Philadelphia co-managing partner Josh Harris revealed the franchise’s plan to retain coach Brett Brown on a long-term deal. Brown’s contract expires at the end of next season, but Harris said the 76ers want to reward him for guiding the team to the postseason for the first time in seven years.
It’s a remarkable effort from the former Sydney Kings mentor, who recorded just 75 wins in his first four seasons at the Sixers.
But largely on the back of Simmons and star centre Joel Embiid, Brown has led Philadelphia to third place in the Eastern Conference with a 52-30 record. This impressive season also included an NBAbest 16 straight end-of-theseason wins.
“I’m invested in keeping Brett here for a long time,” Harris said. “Certainly he is on the other side of that. He’s knocking the cover off the ball. I think he should be coach of the year.”
Fellow Australian Patty Mills will line up for San Antonio against defending champions Golden State today.
The Spurs will be fired up to avenge Saturday’s 113-92 loss to the Warriors, which has put them 1-0 down in the series.