As the Boston Celtics continue to soar, Kevin Durant’s Brooklyn Nets are on the verge of an early playoffs exit. Unfortunately, one of their recruitment in Ben Simmons hasn’t managed to feature in a single game yet.

However, it was recently reported that the 25-year-old will make his debut in Game-4 of the duel. Contrarily, it has now been confirmed that Simmons will not take part in the encounter, which drew tons of flak from big names in the NBA like Shaquille O’Neal and Kendrick Perkins.

Completely out of the pecking order at Philadelphia, Ben Simmons decided to take the next step in his young career. The result was a shock move to Brooklyn, where he joined the likes of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

Stating on multiple occasions that he is happy with the new fit, the likes of Joel Embiid and Doc Rivers have since then claimed that it was time for the Sixers to move on too. Yet, it doesn’t seem like the big trade has made much of an impact so far. Still on the sidelines, little is known of Simmons’ potential return; especially if the Nets are swept in their First Round series.

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Shaquille O’Neal joins Reggie Miller in destroying Ben Simmons

Having heard about the prolonged absence of Simmons, 56-year-old Pacers legend Reggie Miller lashed out. The former player was previously known for having a feud with Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan.

Interestingly, when it was announced that the former All-Defensive Team member is still sore and not match-fit, Miller had heard enough. And he received immediate support, in the form of 15-time All-Star Shaquille O’Neal.

After declaring that Ben has “zero competitive” spirit, Miller reminded KD and Kyrie about the tough road ahead. Discussing the same on NBA TNT, Shaq called the young guard out for leaving his side high and dry. “That was a punk move, Reggie’s absolutely right”, said the 4-time title winning Lakers legend.

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He went on to state, “I think you should step up to the challenge and try to help your team win. But no, he went with the punk move. I’m not gonna play, my back hurt. We all know what that is, ballers know what that is. Everybody else can be ‘oh he’s not ready’, but us, guys that live this life, we know exactly what you’re doing buddy!”

Will we get to see Ben Simmons in action this year? Or is it too little too late? Let’s wait and watch.