The biggest question and criticism surrounding Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Ben Simmons is his lack of a jump shot. In a time where the game of basketball is predicated on shooting and spacing, it seems as if Simmons’ lack of a jumper is holding the Sixers back a bit. That is why the jumper is heavily debated despite the fact that he does everything else at an elite level.
However, there appears to be a change in his game that is coming. With Simmons moving to the power forward spot, there could be more opportunities to shoot the ball for him and is taking more in practice than he ever has before. He has certainly shown a willingness to continue to work on that shot in Orlando.
“You just sort of look at the variety of ways that he has scored,” said coach Brett Brown. “I think just because of the variety of ways that we’re trying to use him helps in some capacity and I think maybe most helpful is his mentality. He’s coming down here with a tremendous spirit. His 3-point shot is looking good. He shot more threes in practice the last few days that he might have for almost half a season and he looks good and feels good and I know he’s getting tremendous encouragement, from his teammates.”
Simmons did make the first two 3-pointers of his career this season which is nothing great, but it something that the team can build on moving forward. With this new move of a new position as well as a guy like Shake Milton moving into the starting group, this could unlock a lot of Simmons’ game as well as more of their options on offense.
“He’s taking shots and he’s knocking him down,” said Milton. “He’s still athletic, he can finish with either hand, he’s still a very unselfish and willing passer, and he’s doing a great job of leading the team so he’s performed well.”
This is all good and well in theory and in practice, but Simmons has got to bring it out in game situations. The Sixers need him to bring these things to the forefront and help their offense succeed with the spacing and the pace they want to play at. [lawrence-related id=34760,34740,34698]