Dragging His Mother into Career Mess, Fallen NBA Star Ben Simmons Gets Coddled by Kevin Garnett: “Get Back to Killing”

Someone who understands an uncontrollable slump from the top is Kevin Garnett. He was crucial to the Boston Celtics’ invincibility but there was a noticeable decline during his last few years. Injuries hampered him but his determination to stay in the game longer was strong. He can notice that same pattern in many active players these days. And of course, Ben Simmons is part of this group.

Garnett previously had very blunt advice for the former #1 pick to get them to bounce back. Now he’s softened his stance on the Nets star as he’s gearing for a comeback everyone will remember.

Kevin Garnett puts his money on Ben Simmons

Ben came into the NBA with high expectations. However, his career trajectory wasn’t what many expected. While injuries were often sidelining him, he was also feuding with the Philadelphia 76ers. He was then moved to the Brooklyn Nets but had to prove himself worth the $37 million paycheck. Stars, analysts and fans were watching him and trying to give him a wakeup call. One of them was from Kevin Garnett.

On a previous episode of Ticket and the Truth, Garnett was blunt about his expectations for Simmons.

“I think he got another run in him, but it’s gonna have to be Ben Simmons,” The Big Ticket said about the player who had been sidelined since 2021. “Not his mom, not none of this collective around him. It’s gotta be him. I want to see dude get back to killing, man.”

Garnett brought up Ben Simmons once more during the latest edition of KG Certified on Showtime Basketball. With his physical and mental health on the mend, the 2008 NBA champion was proud of the 27-year-old’s efforts.

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“Shout out to Ben Simmons, man. I’m glad you found your love bro like real s**t,” Garnett said after he saw the recent Nets game. “You look great out there. You look like the old Ben Simmons.” That’s high praise right there.

KG and many fans noticed this positive motivation too. To Garnett, Simmons is looking phenomenal on the court and he hopes that dazzling streak continues.

Garnett is acutely aware of what Ben endured so early into his career. Back in April, he didn’t mince words when he sent out a message to the younger player that he wanted to see the first overall draft pick back in action.

KG’s reality check for Ben Simmons

The Aussie kicked off his redemption arc in the offseason against his former team.

Simmons averaged 6.5 points and seven assists, showing that he’s in better shape to prove his naysayers wrong. This four-time All-Star wants to make a leap greater than any All-Star with his comeback.

Garnett’s wish for Simmons to “find why you love playing the game” came true with this preseason comeback. Ben is proving he’s still the fierce defender he’s known for. Even Shaquille O’Neal, who was just as hard on him, sees DPOY potential in Simmons.

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The NBA legends’ brands of tough love are apparently working. These stars are eagerly watching Ben Simmons as he puts his energy into redemption. Do you also share Garnett’s enthusiasm?