The Sixer Sense
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Roundtable: Thoughts on Ben Simmons’ first month

By Christopher Kline

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 13: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts to his rebound during a 109-105 win over the LA Clippers at Staples Center on November 13, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 13: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts to his rebound during a 109-105 win over the LA Clippers at Staples Center on November 13, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 13: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the game against the LA Clippers on November 13, 2017 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 13: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during the game against the LA Clippers on November 13, 2017 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, California. 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 Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images) /

A.J. Iezzi

Simmons maturity as a player has been by far his most surprising facet. He makes smart passes and has a tremendous feel for his teammates. The game appears to be very slow to him. His IQ shines on both sides of the floor. Simmons versatility and intensity on defense has also been a pleasant surprise. His defensive prowess early on is a testament to Brett Brown’s coaching.

If Simmons continues his torrid pace, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him gain serious All-Star consideration. If he continues to be 17/9/8 per night there will be no valid reason to keep him out of the All-Star game. Simmons is showing he is built for the NBA.

As far as improvements go, the jumper is the first thing to come to mind, but he’s already shown he can survive without one. His free throw shooting needs to improve. 60% is not acceptable for any basketball player, let alone your primary facilitator and ball-handler. Simmons improving his finishing skills, would also go a long way. He is adept at power finishes with his right hand, but becoming more comfortable with his left and developing a better touch up-close would make his life much easier.

Simmons has glaring strengths, fixable weaknesses, and plenty of time to round-out his game. The Sixers have a “point guard” with Blake Griffin‘s body and LeBron’s passing repertoire. Ben Simmons has been a blast to watch, and is a major factor in the Sixers becoming appointment television. He’s only just getting started…