Ben Simmons returns, Joel Embiid dominates as Sixers crush Spurs in NBA2K simulation

This simulation may have marked the return of Ben Simmons, but it was Joel Embiid who stole the show.

The All-Star center was utterly dominant in an 88-60 drubbing of the Spurs on the road in an NBA2K simulation.

The Sixers went on a 16-5 run in the second to take an eight-point lead into the locker room. They then proceeded to shoot over 70 percent from the field in the second half, opening up a lead as large as 30.

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Here are observations from the virtual win:

Simmons returns but Embiid dominates

Simmons, who in reality had been out while dealing nerve impingement in his lower back, was solid in his return.

Featuring the return of one Ben Simmons. pic.twitter.com/1JbJFhyIRx
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) April 10, 2020

He hit his first couple shots and ran the show offensively, posting seven assists.

But Embiid’s performance topped them all. He easily put up over 20 points and 10 rebounds and controlled the paint defensively.

He was inexplicably still in the game with his team up 30 and under a minute to go. But if he wasn’t, we would’ve never gotten this emphatic dunk ... and shushing of the (correct) crowd.

An Embiid dunk and shush of the crowd, just like the real thing😂

Sixers win! pic.twitter.com/kmFBXIMkFc
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) April 10, 2020

J-Rich delivers, slow start for Harris

Aside from Embiid, Josh Richardson was outstanding offensively in this one, scoring 20-plus points. He shot a scorching 10 of 13 from the field, hitting his first three shots of the second half to help the Sixers extend their lead.

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Tobias Harris didn’t do so hot early, forcing a couple off target mid-range jumpers and getting beaten by All-Star guard DeMar DeRozan. Harris seemed to find his footing when virtual Brett Brown shifted him to the four alongside Al Horford at the five.

The backup point guard situation is … something

Matisse Thybulle as a backup point guard? Well, no one can say the virtual Brown isn’t afraid to try things. This eventually shifted to Alec Burks — who was solid off the bench with seven points — and, finally, the correct decision in Shake Milton.

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