Charles Barkley warns struggling Ben Simmons about facing a hostile Sixers crowd: "He can't even rub it in their face playing good... Philadelphia don't mess around"
Charles Barkley has warned Ben Simmons about the hostile reception he could receive against the Philadelphia 76ers when the Brooklyn Nets travel to Philadelphia on Tuesday (November 22nd). Simmons and the Sixers didn't end their partnership on good terms.
Sixers fans have remained critical of Simmons even after his departure. Barkley believes the 3x All-Star will have a difficult time facing his former team on the road. Here's what Barkley said about this on TNT's "Inside The NBA" show (via Talkin' NBA):
"I do not feel good about that situation, next Tuesday. He's playing bad... I hope nothing bad happens. Like a fan doing something crazy...
"And like I said, he can't even rub it in their face playing good. It's going to be a hostile environment. He's got to play, but man it's going to be bad. Philadelphia don't mess around."
"I do not feel good about that situation... It's gonna be bad... Philadelphia don't mess around."
Charles Barkley on Ben Simmons taking on the Sixers next Tuesday in Philly
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After the 76ers' 2021 playoffs exit, coach Doc Rivers and co-star Joel Embiid fired shots at Simmons. He struggled offensively during the postseason run as his inability to shoot jumpers and free throws hampered his performances.
Ben Simmons passed up a wide-open dunk in Game 7 of the conference semis against the Hawks at a crucial juncture, which many believed led to the Sixers' loss.
Rivers didn't sound supportive of Simmons when asked if the latter was worthy of being a starting point guard on a contending team. Meanwhile, Embiid highlighted that Simmons' passing on a layup opportunity was the turning point in how things played out.
Sixers fans didn't hold back their thoughts either, lambasting the Aussie guard. Simmons received bulk of the blame for Philadelphia's season-ending loss, which caused friction between him and the franchise.
The criticism took a toll on Ben Simmons. He never played for the franchise again. Simmons reportedly told the Sixers that he wasn't mentally ready to take to the court. Philadelphia eventually traded their All-Star guard in a blockbuster deal with the Brooklyn Nets for James Harden at the trade deadline earlier this year.
Also read: "Ben Simmons is so overrated, you can't even put him in the game anymore" - Former All-Star on Nets star
Charles Barkley concerned for Ben Simmons ahead of his return to Philadelphia
Despite leaving the team, Philadelphia 76ers fans haven't gotten off Ben Simmons’ back. They have continued to take jabs at him, especially during his struggles with the Nets this season.
Charles Barkley's concerns seem viable as Philadelphia has always had a hostile crowd. They haven't shied away from booing their own players in the past. Considering Simmons' history with the franchise, Sixers fans will likely try to get under his skin.
Additionally, Simmons has been under pressure this season. He hasn't looked the same since returning to action after 400+ days this season. Across nine games, Simmons is averaging a measly 5.2 points, 6.2 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game. He has shot only 44.4% from the field and 46.7% from the free-throw line.
Ben Simmons lacks confidence in his game. There has been constant chatter about his inability to make an impact on the Nets, who are 6-8 so far. Playing against the fans of his former team could psychologically impact Simmons, who could be feeling the heat after the kind of start he has had this season.
Also read: Former NBA player addresses Ben Simmons’ decreased offensive endeavor: “I think it’s gotten to him so much mentally that it’s built a block in his mind”