The thinking surrounding Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons has been a controversial one. Some appreciate him for what he is as a top 25 player and an All-Star and others criticize him for his lack of a jump shot and offensive limitations.
Simmons was awarded with a $170 million contract extension over the summer that will keep him in Philadelphia over the next five years and that contract extension bothered one of hid 2016 draft classmates.
New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram, who was drafted one pick after Simmons in 2016 by the Los Angeles Lakers, expressed some frustrations after he did not receive an extension. Meanwhile, draft mates Simmons, the Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown, and the Sacramento Kings’ Buddy Hield received one and Ingram believes he deserves one and is better than them.
Ingram told ESPN:
“When we talked about the extension, of course, I’m human,” Ingram said. “When I look at other guys, I’m like, ‘This m—–f—– got an extension? Oh my god. Man, we can lace up right now and play one-on-one to 15 and this m—–f—– won’t score.’ That’s how I looked at it as a competitor.”
Ingram is having a bit of a breakout season for New Orleans averaging 25.3 points and 7.0 rebounds while shooting 40.9% from deep, all career highs for him. If he continues to put up that type of production, he will eventually earn his own extension.
In the meantime, Simmons has earned his extension with his terrific all-around play and his All-Star appearance at just 23-years old. Despite his limitations on offense, he is still one of the better players in the league. [lawrence-related id=22610,22592,22603]