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Rick Carlisle Praises Ben Simmons: ‘Way Better Than Expected’

Philadelphia 76ers rookie Ben Simmons is the early favorite to win the rookie of the year trophy. After missing the whole 2016-2017 season with a broken foot, the number one pick of the 2016 NBA draft has been incredible to start this season. Simmons is averaging a ridiculous 17.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game on the season, and is causing major headaches for opposing coaches and defenses.

One of these coaches is Rick Carlisle. The coach of the Dallas Mavericks had the pleasure of playing against the Australian last night and had the highest praises for the rookie after the game.

Rick Carlisle on Ben Simmons (23 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists): "Everybody knew he was gonna be good, but he's way better than expected."

— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) October 29, 2017

We’ll have a lot of fun with Simmons. He’s only a few games into his career and already thriving.