Philadelphia 76ers: 5 things to watch vs. Brooklyn Nets in first round

4. Ben Simmons’ aggressiveness

For those who think Ben Simmons hasn’t improved in 2019, think again. It’s been a season of growth for the first-time All-Star, making several improvements that go beyond his most glaring hole.

Despite missing a jumper, Simmons has rounded out his scoring repertoire. He’s more well-versed in the post, finishing with touch and bullying smaller defenders at the rim. His willingness to embrace contact and get to the free throw line as been huge.

In the postseason, defenses will take special care to put Simmons in difficult positions. The Nets will sag off and force Ben to get creative. He needs to embrace, not only setting hard screens for J.J. Redick, but using to extra momentum to attack the cup and draw fouls.

If Simmons consistently gets to the rim and imposes his will inside, defenses will struggle to contain him. Not having a jumper is a major hindrance in the postseason, but Simmons has the tools and talent to minimize the issue — especially against non-elite teams.

Expect a statement-making Simmons this weekend.