Allen Iverson is trying to give Ben Simmons answers

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 16: Allen Iverson looks on during the game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets on March 16, 2018 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Ben Simmons can use Allen Iverson’s help. The former Philadelphia 76ers point guard is reportedly offering it.

After scoring one measly point in his last NBA Playoff game it’s clear that Ben Simmons is in need of serious help. Fans of the Philadelphia 76ers might be hoping that Allen Iverson can provide their talented rookie with some answers.

Simmons told reporters that Iverson called him after Game 2 and just told him to “play the game I know how to play.” Presumably that will require Simmons to be much more active against the Celtics in Game 3. The previous game’s debacle against Boston signified Simmons’ lowest point total of the year. It was also the first time in his career that Simmons had failed to make a shot from the field.

Even before Iverson’s phone call Simmons already had his own theories regarding his struggles. Immediately after the game he told pool reporters that his poor play was largely “self-inflicted.” Despite his poor stay to the playoffs, Simmons is adamant that he is still “very confident” in his basketball abilities.

Simmons could use a little bit of Iverson as the series returns to Philadelphia. Brett Brown’s offense simply can’t function at a high level without Simmons being a viable threat. If Brad Stevens’ defense can continue to ignore the rookie’s ability to score it will allow the Celtics to suffocate the 76ers attack. Joel Embiid has been excellent so far in the series, but he’s not going to defeat Boston by himself.

Don’t be surprised if Brown tries to start Game 3 with a very specific game plan to get Simmons involved. It won’t be enough to let him just stand at the top of the key and distribute the ball to his teammates. Brown has to find a way to get him the ball on the move to be successful. Specifically, allowing Simmons to attack the Boston defense off the dribble could help him get going in the series.

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If things don’t turn around quickly for Simmons and the 76ers it’s going to take more than a phone call or two from Iverson to save Philadelphia’s season. He might be The Answer, but he doesn’t have all the answers for Simmons and his teammates.

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