Game Info
Philadelphia 76ers vs Utah Jazz: July 9, 9 p.m. (Eastern)
How to Watch: The Comcast Network, NBA TV
The Return of Ben Simmons
The No. 1 overall pick lived up to the hype in his debut on Monday night against the Celtics before succumbing to cramps in both calves. In just under 24 minutes, Simmons nearly recording a double-double, totaling 10 points and eight rebounds, to go along with five assists. He was also a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line.
All eyes will be on the former LSU Tiger, as he’s expected to return tonight in his second action as a member of the Sixers.
During the Celtics game, Simmons displayed his impressive passing ability, having some highlight-reel quality dimes. He’ll be the focus of attention as he’s expected to return for the Sixers’ final matchup in Utah.
Quick Hits From Game Two
Wood You Rather
During the first two games of the Utah summer league, Christian Wood been impressive; the second-year big man has averaged 19.5 points, which is tied for third-best in the entire Utah league with three other players. He’s led the Sixers in scoring in both games, scoring 20 against Boston, and 19 against San Antonio.
He’s shooting 70.6 percent from the field, including 60 percent from three-point range, which displays his improvement as a shooter (41.5 percent from the field a year ago). Wood’s missed a total of five shots in two games.
Key Matchup to Watch
Utah Jazz’s Trey Lyles, like the aforementioned Wood, is also averaging 19.5 points per contest during the Utah summer league. The 12th overall pick in 2015 started 33 games and averaged 6.1 points per game as a rookie.
Lyles and Simmons both play the forward position, and are both 6’10” tall. Additionally, both players are originally from outside the United States, as Lyles was born in Canada, and Simmons born in Melbourne, Australia.
Lyles scored 26 points in the Jazz’s second summer league game against the Celtics, connecting on 9-for-10 from the free-throw line. In addition to his 19.5 points per game, Lyles has racked up 23 total rebounds. Lyles also scored 13 points in the Jazz’s first game against of the summer league vs the Spurs.
In the final game of the Utah summer league, Simmons and Lyles will likely be seeing a good amount of each other, which adds an interesting element to the game, as the former SEC members square off.
Quote of the Day
Summer league head coach Billy Lange on Christian Wood after his 19-point performance against San Antonio:
“Christian is playing great. He’s confident right now and he feels like he belongs out here at a different place than maybe he would have a year ago. You see confidence in his offensive game, driving, catching and shooting, making some quicker decisions and going after rebounds.”
