Ben Simmons shows positive signs with double-double as Nets nab first win of season

Ben Simmons is showing shades of his best to begin the NBA season, starring in Brooklyn’s first win of the campaign over Charlotte.

A run of injuries hampered Simmons after he moved to the Nets last season as part of a highly-publicised trade that sent James Harden to Philadelphia.

But Simmons has appeared undaunted by the prospect of repaying Brooklyn for their faith this season and came within two assists of a triple-double in Tuesday’s 133-121 road win.

Running the point, the Australian (11 points, team-high 10 rebounds, team-high eight assists) masterminded a 15-2 run that helped the Nets begin the game on the front foot.

Brooklyn never surrendered their lead, though the Hornets did cut it to single digits either side of halftime and then again in the final period.

Simmons’ passing game out of trouble was especially effective at setting the Nets up in transition and it was encouraging to see him use his size to take the paint on.

“I said this to him specifically at shoot-around, ‘I saw progression from game one to game two and I’m looking forward to seeing the progression from game two to game three’,” said Nets coach Jacque Vaughn.

“He definitely set the tone for us to start the basketball game. I think his physicality, his ability to push the basketball was high-level for us, getting guys open for shots.

“It’s a joy to play that way. I think this team is built versatility-wise to play that way. We’ll continue to embrace it.”

Simmons would likely have finished the game with his second triple-double as a Net had he not been shifted to the post late in the fourth quarter.

Brooklyn, without Nic Claxton due to a left ankle sprain, were down a big man in their rotation.

Nets forward Cam Thomas (33 points) lauded Simmons on his start to the season.

“Him playing like this, I wouldn’t say it’s at his full potential yet but him getting back in stride, he’s looking real good. He’s been solid,” Thomas said.

“We’re getting comfortable with him. Just figuring out how he plays is good, he’s playing fast, up-tempo. He’s going to find us.

“The harder you run, the more easy baskets you can get from him. Obviously he’s playing well. I’m happy for him.”