The Sixer Sense
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Ben Simmons working out with LeBron James is a promising sign

By Christopher Kline

BROOKLYN, NY - MARCH 28: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers warms up before the game against the Brooklyn Nets on March 28, 2017 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
BROOKLYN, NY - MARCH 28: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers warms up before the game against the Brooklyn Nets on March 28, 2017 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Ben Simmons has been working out with LeBron James as of late, which could be a massive positive for the Philadelphia 76ers rookie.

Ben Simmons was one of the most high-touted rookies of this century in the weeks leading up to the 2016 NBA Draft. A generational passer with an impressive 6-foot-10 frame, many drew comparisons to some of the all-time greats when projecting Simmons’ performance at the next level.

Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers /

Philadelphia 76ers

One of the names tied to the Philadelphia 76ers rookie the most was LeBron James.

While that’s obviously a lofty set of expectations for a 20-year-old who struggled with his jumper, Simmons does have a uniqueness that sets him apart from most other rookies. Him and Lonzo Ball are in a class of their own as playmakers entering the league over the past several seasons, while his combination of size and speed is almost unheralded. He may not be LeBron, but the comparisons are out there for a reason.

Brett Brown has continually doubled down on his desires to run Simmons has the lead ball handler this season, and Simmons himself said he was a “starting point guard.” Even with Markelle Fultz on board, the bulk of the Sixers’ offensive possessions figure to run through Simmons in some capacity. They’ll likely allow him to roam defensively and float in for rebounds, which in turn gives him the ability to push the ball up court and create in transition for a Sixers team that’s built to space the floor around him.

With all those connections, Simmons’ recent workout with LeBron becomes entirely relevant. Offseason workouts don’t make or break a career, but learning from players who can add to your repertoire is always valuable. James is one of the greatest, if not the greatest, players of all time. He has a few things he can teach Ben.

Related Story: Ben Simmons is a point guard, and then some

Aside from the obvious correlations in skill, James can help Simmons adjust to the game physically. Albeit in different respects, they both entered the league as anomalies from an athletic standpoint. Being Simmons’ size and moving up and down the floor at breakneck speed can be difficult on one’s body — especially when playing against NBA competition.

Simmons’ body control has always been impressive, but James can help further any development in that department tenfold. LeBron’s ability to stay in shape isn’t an accident either. His workout regimen and consistent health precautions have allowed him to dominate in arguably the heaviest minutes load of all-time, while virtually avoiding injuries in the process.

If Simmons is able to take some of James’ routine and add it to his, it’s difficult to overstate just how valuable that could become.

The Sixers are also trending towards the playoffs, which means Simmons — in his first year on the floor — could be spearheading the offense for a legitimately competitive roster. James is as familiar with the playoff grind and it’s prerequisites as anybody in the NBA.

Simmons’ relationship with LeBron extends well beyond this singular workout as well. Simmons signed with Klutch Sports before the draft in 2016 — the same agency that represents James.

Related Story: Ben Simmons' passing is truly elite

James already referred to himself as Simmons’ mentor prior to the draft last season:

"Well, I think he’s a great young talent,” James said. “I think the way he displays on the basketball court, we all notice. I think we all don’t know just yet how great of a kid he is and how down to earth he is with the game of basketball and life in general. I had an opportunity to spend a lot of time over the last couple years with him and his family. They’re just so very appreciative of the opportunity that they’ve been given as a family. Also, they give everything to their son. They want the best for him. And as a mentor to him and big brother to him, I also give him a lot of advice on what to expect when he makes his jump next week, how to handle it. But he also has to figure it out on his own as well because everybody’s path is different.” — LeBron James, via CBS"

There’s a lot to digest there, but it’s all positive. Not only has James been in touch with Simmons for several years now, but he seems fully willing to offer his advice and groom the former LSU stud as he carves out his niche in the NBA.

Whether it’s Kyle Korver teaching Dennis Schroder how to shoot or Kevin Garnett taking the Timberwolves’ youngsters under his wings, there’s tremendous value in a strong veteran mentor, whether it be for a singular skill or basketball as a whole.

But having the best player since Michael Jordan giving you consistent advice takes that value to an elevated state. Simmons is one of the rare players whose game is remotely comparable to James’, and LeBron has wholeheartedly embraced a role as his NBA “big brother.”

Next: Ben Simmons' jumper is a work in progress

Expectations are already high for Simmons, but James could be instrumental in helping him weather that storm.