Overview

• Ben Simmons, now with the Brooklyn Nets, is set to face the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center, where he expects a hostile reception from fans.
• Simmons, who played six seasons with the 76ers before being traded in 2022, says he enjoys the boos and finds the animosity motivating.
• The Nets forward is coming off his strongest performance of the season, recording 10 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in a win over Charlotte earlier this week.
• Simmons has struggled with injuries and inconsistent play this season but has shown flashes of his potential, including increased physicality and defensive presence in recent games.
• The 76ers, currently holding the worst record in the league, are in turmoil, creating an opportunity for the Nets to secure consecutive wins for just the second time this season.