via Getty
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 28: Ben Simmons #10 of the Brooklyn Nets looks out during game against the Toronto Raptors at Barclays Center on February 28, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michelle Farsi/Getty Images)
via Getty
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 28: Ben Simmons #10 of the Brooklyn Nets looks out during game against the Toronto Raptors at Barclays Center on February 28, 2022 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michelle Farsi/Getty Images)
After not playing for the team for almost a whole year, former Philadelphia 76ers star Ben Simmons finally made his move to the Brooklyn Nets. The Australian had cited mental health issues for not playing and also had a fallout with the franchise, which led to a huge backlash from the fans and the media.
USA Today via Reuters
May 31, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) reacts after the basket during the first quarter against the Washington Wizards during game four in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Talking about whether or not Ben deserves a tribute video, a former NBA champion had a lot to say. Talking on NBA Today in ESPN, Richard Jefferson bashed Simmons and anyone who thinks he deserves a tribute video.
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Does Simmons deserve a tribute video?
While Ben Simmons might not have had the best of exits from the Philadelphia 76ers, his contributions to the team cannot be undermined. And for that very reason, a certain section of fans have demanded a tribute video.
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Talking on NBA Today in ESPN, former NBA champion Richard Jefferson bashed anyone who thinks he deserves a tribute video. He said, “No. He does not deserve anything. Did Kyrie get a tribute video when he went back to Boston? We just gotta quit giving out such tribute videos. It’s like a video for a person that quit on your franchise.”
Despite being hated for his actions during the latter half of his career in Philadelphia, he was once one of their best players alongside the likes of Joel Embiid.
How good was Simmons in the 76ers?
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The Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers’ fallout was the talk of the trade season with teams trying to capitalize. Despite having a bad relationship with the front office, he was one of the most invaluable players for coach Doc Rivers.
USA Today via Reuters
May 29, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) celebrates with 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) against the Washington Wizards in the third quarter during game three in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
When he was having a bad run of form, the coach came to support the Australian. He said, “The stuff he does for us to help us win, the winning things he does, it’s hard to put into numbers. “
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Simmons averaged 15.9 points, 7.7 assists, and 8.1 rebounds during his time in Philadelphia. After making his much-anticipated departure from the team, he joined the Brooklyn Nets. Where Simmons is yet to make his debut for his new team.
