Ben Simmons top-scores in pre-season NBA game

Australian Ben Simmons has continued to rack up the minutes in the NBA pre-season in his third outing in a week.

Philadelphia 76ers’ Ben Simmons goes in for a dunk

Australian Ben Simmons has continued to rack up the minutes in the NBA pre-season in his third outing in a week.

The 21-year-old top-scored for Philadelphia in their 113-96 pre-season defeat to Boston at The Garden yesterday.

The Australian had 15 points — shooting at 50 per cent from the field but making just three of 10 free-throws — in 26 minutes.

The defeat was the 76ers’ third in succession but coach Brett Brown will be buoyed by the output of Simmons and fellow No 1 draft pick Markelle Fultz (12 points in 24 minutes).

Despite the home win, the Celtics will be concerned by the knee injury suffered by Australian Aron Baynes.

The 30-year-old Boomers centre got tangled up under the basket with teammate Guerschon Yabusele and Sixers forward Amir Johnson.

He limped off court to receive treatment. “Aron Baynes suffered a left knee sprain and will not return to tonight’s game,” the Celtics tweeted.

In his post-match conference, Boston coach Brad Stevens said Baynes had suffered a hyperextended knee and would be re-evaluated before a decision was made on his return.

AAP