Ben Simmons
Is there any other rookie that has as much pressure on them as Ben Simmons heading into this NBA season?
Simmons has been heralded as the savior of the Philadelphia 76ers franchise. He has also been a superstar figure in the public eye, drawing comparisons to LeBron James and even Magic Johnson all before being drafted first overall back in June. While these comparisons are a bit extreme, it is no doubt that you will be keeping a close eye on him this fall whether you are a fan or a naysayer of his extraordinary talent.
Simmons displays exceptional ball handling skills and court vision for a man of his size. It is clear that Sixers head coach, Brett Brown is planning on running the offense through him and letting him make plays. This was very evident at times during the Sixers summer league games like the times below.
Simmons went on to average 12.3 PPG, 7.8 Rebounds and 5.5 assists through the four games he played in Las Vegas. He was named to the All-NBA Summer League First Team.
It is no doubt that all eyes will be on Simmons every move through training camp and leading up to the NBA season. He needs to be a leader even as a rookie and the team will follow wherever he leads them.
While it is nearly impossible for Simmons to live up to the monumental hype that he has already received, he has shown that he is willing and able to step up to the plate. Sixers fans and NBA analysts are asking a lot from a kid who is fresh off his 20th birthday. But if there is anyone who is up for that challenge, it’s him.
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