Ben Simmons Mocked Bradley Beal After Missed Layup With Smoking Gesture

In yet another example of his growing confidence, Ben Simmons made a layup after physically pushing Kevin Durant with his shoulder. After making the shot, Simmons stared down his former teammate before running back on defense. It was an impressive move, considering how timid Simmons has looked over the last few years.

He even poked fun at Ryan Dunn after another shot made, making the 'Too Small' gesture at him after pushing him off while he tried to guard him.

Simmons had his best game this season and one of his best games in a Nets jersey ever last night. He put up 14 points (7-8 FG), nine rebounds, eight assists, and one steal. For the first time in a long time, fans got a glimpse of the old Ben Simmons, with his aggression and ferocity on both ends of the court.

Ben Simmons Talks About Struggles With Injuries

After the game, Ben Simmons talked about his solid performance and why he was able to turn it up tonight. Simmons noted that he has been growing in comfort and confidence, especially after the serious back issue he had. While he wants to get back to his old level, he knows it will take time.

“I think I’m just getting more comfortable. I’ve been away from the game for a while in terms of being healthy and it takes time to get back to back to where I want to be. I want nothing more in the world than to get back to where I used to be. It takes time and I just have to keep working and trusting myself.”

Simmons has struggled significantly to recover his All-Star form since leaving the 76ers and joining the Nets. He's had consecutive seasons ended early due to struggles with his back and has consistently been a player who puts up single-digit scorelines and has shown a fear of taking shots.

This season, he has averaged just 6.6 assists, 5.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 0.9 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game.

But perhaps last night's game was a turning point for Simmons, as he showed the kind of confidence that made him such a popular player in the league. While he is by no means putting up All-Star numbers right now, perhaps he could find a way to become a consistent role player with decent scoring and excellent ball distribution.

Simmons is in the final year of his contract, making $40 million, and becomes a free agent next season. His upcoming free agency might be a motivating factor in his improved performance last night, as he wants to show the league that he can still be a solid NBA player worthy of a contract.