Nets' Steve Nash Says Ben Simmons Was 'Rusty' in Debut Loss vs. Pelicans

Ben Simmons struggled in his first game for the Brooklyn Nets. Nets head coach Steve Nash said that Simmons' performance was due to the fact that he missed the entire season.

He's rusty. The guy hasn't played in a while. He is still getting used to things. It's a process for Ben.

Simmons had four points, five rebound, five assists, and three turnovers before he was forced to leave the game in the 23rd minute. The Nets lost to the New Orleans Pelicans 130-108 on their home court.

A combination of injuries, a need to address his mental health and displeasure caused him to push to be traded from the Philadelphia 76ers. It was expected that he would fit in nicely with the Nets stars, but he was not able to play.

Nash thinks Simmons has the potential to get back to the player who was a difference-maker on both ends of the floor.

He's shown a glimpse of the player we know he can be, but it's not easy. We are here to help him. We're here to help him get to a place where he can play at a high level.

Nash understands that Simmons needs to get used to this early in the season.

It is all there for him. There's a lot on his plate now that he's getting his legs under him, getting his rhythm and assimilating to a new group. As long as he builds his confidence, plays hard, and plays with force, we're fine with him making mistakes.

The Nets will play the Raptors on Friday.