Philadelphia 76ers rookie sensation Ben Simmons has etched his name alongside one of the NBA's most legendary figures. After posting 10 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists in Tuesday night's 101-98 loss to the Indiana Pacers, Simmons is now tied with former Los Angeles Lakers great Magic Johnson for the second-most triple-doubles recorded by any rookie in NBA history.
“The Big O,” Oscar Robertson, leads all rookies in this category with an impressive 26 triple-doubles in his rookie season with the Cincinnati Royals. Johnson (1979-80) and Simmons have seven such performances to their credit.
Ben Simmons with Oscar and Magic?
That's some impressive company. pic.twitter.com/E63YSUT40Y
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 14, 2018
Without question, Simmons, 21, is an important piece in Philadelphia's metaphorical puzzle. In his 65 games played for the Sixers this season, the former LSU Tiger has racked up averages of 16.2 points on 53.6 percent shooting from the field, 7.7 rebounds and 7.6 assists.
Most experts and analysts view Simmons as an up-and-coming star, and it's certainly hard to argue with them. Even Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James has taken notice of “the Young King,” as he we would say. Following a recent loss to the Sixers, James was asked what sort of matchup problems Simmons creates.
“The same one I bring,” James said of Simmons. “Power, speed, quickness, size, court awareness. Same one I bring.”
LeBron James provides high praise for Ben Simmons saying Simmons brings the same matchup problems that he brings to the court. pic.twitter.com/QAvoF7jKVa
— Bally Sports Cincinnati (@BallySportsCIN) March 2, 2018
Simmons and the Sixers — currently the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference standings with a 36-30 overall record — will be back in action on Thursday night, as they're scheduled to face the New York Knicks inside Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. EST.
Follow Us
Subscribe