Ben Simmons puts up back-to-back double doubles as 76ers fall to Celtics

WHEN you find yourself on lists filled with names like Kareem, Oscar, Shaq and Robinson you know you’re on track.

Ben Simmons is continuing his seamless transition to NBA ranks.

BEN Simmons continues to look at home in the NBA as he put up his second double-double in two games to begin his career in a 102-92 defeat against Boston.

The young Aussie is the first player in Sixers franchise history to achieve the feat and joined the likes of Shaquille O’Neal and David Robinson on a shortlist of NBA greats.

It followed an 18-point, five-assist, 10-rebound debut in a 120-115 defeat in Washington.

Ben Simmons starts career with back-to-back double-doubles.

1st player in franchise history to do so, 11th in NBA history (@bball_ref). pic.twitter.com/nIoX1ytunp

— Brian Seltzer (@brianseltzer) October 21, 2017

It’s when you add his assist tally into the mix though that really shows how unique a talent he is. Check this out for company.

Ben Simmons is so good. pic.twitter.com/YqxqgZK9JX

— Joe Giglio (@JoeGiglioSports) October 21, 2017

Simmons was on fire early against the Celtics, producing nine points, eight rebounds and two assists in the first half to push Philly to a 50-46 lead as both teams searched for their first win of the season.

He was quieter in the second half as Boston — led by Kyrie Irving’s 21 points — surged into the lead. Simmons finished with 11 points, 11 rebounds and five assists and if you thought his play was catching America’s attention, watch for the cameo at the end of this highlight from early in the second term.

Watch till the end for a twist. pic.twitter.com/i4cqaBfBS7

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) October 20, 2017

But Hollywood star Samuel L. Jackson wasn’t the only one impressed with the 20-year-old’s performance.

Ben Simmons might be an even better prospect than Embiid.

— Robin Lundberg (@robinlundberg) October 21, 2017

Ben Simmons is unstoppable in transition.

— Mark Gunnels (@MarkAGunnels) October 20, 2017

Easy to remember why many of us were so obsessed with the idea of #Celtics drafting Ben Simmons. Goodness he’s fun to watch. #Sixers

— Adam Kaufman (@AdamMKaufman) October 21, 2017

Ben Simmons easily driving to the basket past defenders on a fastbreak looks like, "Excuse me. Get out of my way. Ok thanks. Bye."

— Jessica Camerato (@JCameratoNBCS) October 20, 2017

Ben Simmons reminds me of a young Scottie Pippen. Sixers are going to be really good in a year or so (if Embiid can stay healthy)

— Andrew Abramson (@AbramsonFL) October 21, 2017

Ben Simmons drives past Abdel Nader. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)

In Milwaukee, Thon Maker battled early foul troubles in the Bucks’ game against Cleveland.

Maker had two points and three fouls in nine minutes as Milwaukee trailed 55-49 at the half before making a couple of baskets in the third as the deficit blew out to 86-73.

The Sudanese-born Australian finished with seven points and three rebounds in 16 minutes as the Cavs triumphed 116-97 despite 34 points, eight assists and eight rebounds from emerging MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo.

LeBron James led the Cavaliers with 24 points and eight assists. Kyle Korver (17 points, 5/6 three-pointers) and Kevin Love (17 points, 12 rebounds) were also prominent.

Elsewhere, Joe Ingles was on the mark from long range (4/5 threes) in a 14-point outing for Utah, but the Jazz fell to Minnesota 100-97.

Portland made it two from two with a 114-96 win against Indiana and the Wizards did the same with a 115-111 victory against Detroit. Kemba Walker’s 26 points and nine assists secured Charlotte’s first win 109-91 against Atlanta.

Nikola Vucevic’s 41 points weren’t enough to get the Magic past Brooklyn, as the Nets posted a 126-121 win. Sacramento edged Dallas 93-88.

Kevin Durant hosted a block party against a spirited New Orleans Pelicans, recording seven in the Golden State Warriors 128-120 win.