Potential Realized With Philadelphia 76ers 2016 Lineup

Dec 22, 2015; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers forward Ben Simmons (25) looks to pass over American University Eagles forward Lonnie Rivera (15) in the second half at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. LSU won 79-51. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Ben Simmons

Point Guard Ben Simmons – LSU

Simmons doesn’t shoot three-pointers, and that’s no coincidence. His lack of shooting ability makes him the inverse of what many NBA teams are looking for in of a contemporary power forward. But when he’s surrounded by shooters and allowed to orchestrate everything around him, Simmons’ unique ability to create looks for himself and others can be a powerful offense by itself. Simmons is certainly a star, but he also requires a certain type of roster around him.

It didn’t take long for Ben Simmons to show his potential in the right roster, and why he’s in the mix to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Through his first five games with LSU, the freshman is averaging 16.2 points (on 53.4 percent from the field), 14.4 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.4 blocks.

He’s likely the top rated talent in the NBA draft in 2016.   If the Sixers end up with that coveted first pick of the NBA draft, the choice is an obvious one.  But at 6’10” , many have Simmons projected to go front court – where as the Sixers needs are in the back court and perimeter shooting.   Simmons has not yet developed that perimeter shooting game, so why would Philadelphia want him?

What can Simmons bring to the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016?  Expect 28 minutes per game, 50% shooting and 15 points per game, 7.1 assists per game,  7 rebounds per game, 2 steals and 2.8 turnovers per game.  I project him as a point guard, and I am not standing in a crowd on this one.

Next: Point Forward To The Draft