Sixers: Should Doc Rivers care about Ben Simmons’ scoring?

Since the All-Star break, Ben Simmons is averaging 12.9 points and 6.2 assists on 45.5 percent shooting. Compared to his career numbers, and even to his numbers early this season, that’s severely underwhelming. So, what’s up with the three-time All-Star?

It’s not unreasonable to write this off as a slump. Even Simmons’ worst stretches rarely coincide with sub-50 percent shooting. He’s one of the better finishers in the NBA and his efficiency is bound to improve in time. That said, there are broader issues here — both in terms of Simmons’ approach and in how the Sixers are handling it.

The Sixers need more from Ben Simmons, and Doc Rivers should acknowledge that.

After Sunday’s loss to Memphis, Doc Rivers said the following about Simmons’ recent play.

"“I think Ben’s a facilitator. I think that’s what he does. … I think you guys are way more concerned about him scoring than I am… I think Ben does so many things for this team to help us win. Scoring is just, I’m telling you, the least thing that I’m concerned about.”"

This is in line with Rivers’ stance on Simmons all season. He does so much good, that his limitations as a scorer are unimportant. I tend to agree — Simmons is one of the 25 best players in the game, and he can certainly impact winning at a championship level in his current state. Rivers’ inability to critically assess Ben’s performance, however, is a problem.

Simmons has addressed his struggles with accountability in the past. Brett Brown was never shy about pressuring Simmons publicly. It didn’t always work, but Simmons is the only core Sixer who isn’t having a career year under Rivers. He is a frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year — no one would consider it a bad season — but Simmons’ offense has been atypically uneven for long stretches.

There’s no telling if more public pressure would help, but Rivers should at least acknowledge the clear shortcomings in Simmons’ production this season. This isn’t about a jump shot. It’s about aggressiveness and smart decision-making — about embracing the free-throw line, overcoming his fear of contact, and taking full advantage of his ability to collapse a defense.

We have seen both sides of the coin this season. The worst basketball of Ben’s career and the best basketball of Ben’s career has arguably taken place this season. Unfortunately, as of late, the worst is winning out. Rivers should take note and, instead of deflecting to empty praise of Simmons’ ancillary skills, make a real effort to change Simmons’ approach for the better.