NBA Today: 5 stars who have had a disappointing season so far

#2 Ben Simmons - Philadelphia 76ers

Ben Simmons continues to struggle on the offensive end

Heading into the season, much was made of Ben Simmons' supposedly improved jump-shot, although the 23-year-old has once again struggled on the offensive end. Simmons was expected to take on a bigger role in the absence of Butler, although the 2018 Rookie of the Year is only averaging 13.2 points per game on 54% shooting from the floor.

That marks a career-low for Simmons, and his rebounding figures are also down (6.8) despite averaging a career-high 34.4 minutes per contest. Admittedly, Simmons has been able to make an impact on the defensive end, although, with the Australian now into his third year in the league, his overall impact should be considered underwhelming.

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#1 Nikola Jokic - Denver Nuggets

Nikola Jokic has been one of the seasons biggest disappointments so far

Following an excellent 2018-19 season in which he almost guided the Denver Nuggets to the Western Conference Finals, Nikola Jokic was widely backed as a potential MVP candidate. At 24 Jokic is entering his prime, and the Serbian last season averaged career-highs in points (20.1), rebounds (7.2) and assists (7.2).

However, while the Nuggets have started the season well, Jokic's struggles have been well documented. Through 20 appearances, Jokic is averaging 15.7 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game, and is also shooting a career-low 46.4% from the field. At this point, Jokic will struggle to make the 2020 All-Star Game, and Denver will struggle to make much of an impact in the playoffs unless Jokic can improve over the next few months.