How Ben Simmons Played Part in Coaching Change for 76ers Rival
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Recently, one of the teams in the Philadelphia 76ers' division decided to make a major change. In just his second full season as head coach, the Brooklyn Nets decided to part ways with Jacque Vaughn.
Amid recent developments, it seems Vaughn's handling of a former Sixer played a part in his dismissal. During a recent episode of the HoopsHype podcast, Michael Scotto touched on the Nets' decision to fire their coach. He also reported that multiple members of the team were frustrated with how Vaughn centered his plans around Ben Simmons.
"Behind the scenes, there were rumblings about players, including Mikal Bridges, Spencer Dinwiddie when he was on the team, and others who weren’t thrilled with Jacque Vaughn’s game plans centering around Ben Simmons, who’s been injured the vast majority of his time with Brooklyn," Scotto said.
Simmons joined the Nets in 2022, but lingering injuries have resulted in him missing significant time. During his tenure in Brooklyn, the former No. 1 pick has played in just 54 games. This season, Simmons is averaging 6.8 PPG, 8.4 RPG, and 6.5 APG.
Vaughn took over as head coach of the Nets last season. Before being dismissed, he posted a regular season record of 71-68. Brooklyn ended up replacing Vaughn with assistant coach and former Sixer Kevin Ollie.
The Nets currently sit six spots below the Sixers in the Eastern Conference standings in 11th place (22-35 record). So far, these teams have squared off twice. The season series sits tied at one, with the Nets winning the most recent matchup.
Philly and Brooklyn don't square off again until March 5th. Their fourth and final matchup of the year is the last game of the regular season on April 14th.
