Ben Simmons responded to Jared Dudley after the Brooklyn Nets forward labeled Simmons an “average” player in the halfcourt.
There’s no love lost between the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers. Embroiled in a best-of-seven slugfest, Jared Dudley and Ben Simmons are trading barbs off the court.
One day after Dudley called Simmons “average” in the halfcourt, Simmons responded to the criticism.
#Sixers PG @BenSimmons25 responds to Jared Dudley’s comment about the #NBAAllStar being “average” in half court. pic.twitter.com/0BQTtHOnUL
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) April 18, 2019
“It’s coming from Jared Dudley, man,” Simmons responded with a smirk.
First off, this is solid trash talk from Simmons. He’s an All-Star and one of the premier players in the NBA. Conversely, Dudley is a savvy veteran who plays a role for the Nets.
That being said, Dudley’s plan is working so far. Clearly, the comment struck a nerve with Simmons and that’s exactly what Dudley wanted. He’s playing mind games with Simmons, but we’ll have to wait for Game 3 to see whether or not Dudley’s trash talk is working.
After a forgettable performance in Game 1, Simmons erupted for a triple-double in Game 2. He was a menace in transition and showed why he’s so special at an uptempo pace. His size and vision allow him to dominate in transition.
However, Dudley did not play in Game 2 due to a calf strain. The veteran was instrumental in stopping Simmons in Game 1. According to the NBA’s official injury report, Dudley is probable for Game 3 on Thursday.
The Simmons-Dudley matchup is one to keep an eye on as the series progresses. The Nets and Sixers will face off at 8:00 p.m. ET on Thursday night in Brooklyn.
