Simmons excited to partner with KD, Kyrie: 'I think it's going to be scary'

Newly-acquired Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons says he's excited for what lies ahead after arriving in a blockbuster trade from the Philadelphia 76ers last week.

In particular, Simmons spoke about the potential dominance of a lineup featuring him, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving.

"I think it's going to be scary having those guys running alongside me as different weapons on the floor," Simmons said in his first public comments this season, courtesy of HoopsHype's Michael Scotto. "At the pace we want to play at, it's going to be unreal."

Simmons sat out the entire regular season thus far after demanding a trade out of Philadelphia, saying he wasn't mentally ready to play for the team again. He cited "a lot of things internally" as what led to his declining mental health in Philly while stating it wasn't a personal issue with any 76ers players, coaches, or owner, according to The Undefeated's Marc J. Spears.

76ers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey patiently waited to move Simmons, then capitalized by sending the disgruntled 25-year-old to Brooklyn in a trade package for former MVP James Harden.

Simmons says he's thrilled to be with the Nets and feeling more like himself.

"They should be happy I'm smiling, honestly. I've had some dark times over the last six months," Simmons said when asked about those who've doubted the legitimacy of his recent mental health struggles. "I'm just happy to be in this situation with this team. People are going to say what they want. They've said it the last six months."

The Nets have yet to announce the date of Simmons' debut. The Australian acknowledged he's ramping up his activity, while head coach Steve Nash previously said the team wouldn't rush him back onto the court.

Brooklyn is coming off a key victory over the Sacramento Kings that snapped an 11-game losing streak. The Nets are currently 30-27 and occupy the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.