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#4 Ben Simmons (Philadelphia 76ers)
Just two seasons ago, the Philadelphia 76ers were the laughingstock of the league and had set new lows by losing a historically high number of matches in a given season. Fast forward to today- Philadelphia held the 3rd seed in their conference, topping the Cavs led by a certain LeBron James, and went on an unprecedented 17-game winning run.
They not only made the playoffs, they also advanced to the second round before bowing out to the Celtics. So what changed for them so fast?
Ben Simmons.
Simmons represents Australia at the international level. After not playing a single game last season due to injury, the LSU product has developed into one of the most promising players in the league and has made a strong case for Rookie of the Year.
He is truly the floor general that Philadelphia sorely missed a few seasons back and has gained the approval and appreciation of legends across the league. In fact, many expect him to become an all-timer by the time he hangs his boots.
Simmons has, along with Joel Embiid, been the catalyst for his franchise and is part of one of the most effective backcourts in the Eastern Conference today. He has changed the face of the 76ers and has been instrumental in guiding them to the second round of the playoffs this term.
In his very first regular season, Simmons had a commanding 15.8, 8.2 and 8.1 statline. He has multiple triple-doubles under his belt and has all the inklings of developing into the total offensive package, much like Russell Westbrook- considering he already has a near season-long triple-double statline. He directs and distributes play efficiently, allowing teammates such as Embiid, JJ Redick and TJ McConnell to get possessions and make shots.
While he is a shoe-in for the all-rookie team, Simmons has what it takes to be an MVP. What he needs to work on this off-season to scale even greater heights is-his shooting.
In an age where even centers are making more threes than ever, Ben Simmons has not made a single three-pointer this season. He needs to work on his 3-point shooting, as is expected of all guards in the league, and to increase his offensive contribution.
Next season, analysts across the league want to see him score over 20 points per game, compared to the 15.8 he put up this season. Still, for a rookie, Big Ben has taken the league by storm.
Guess the Lakers players!
