Philadelphia 76ers point forward Ben Simmons is one of the most intriguing young talents in the league. However, Simmons has yet to develop a consistent jumper. Sixers fans got some encouraging news on Friday, when Sixers teammate Tobias Harris claimed Simmons actually drained a few triples over him in a game of one-on-one:
Harris says in recent game of 1v1 vs. Simmons, he was daring him to shoot threes, only for Simmons to hit two in a row to force him to guard him out to the line
— Kyle Neubeck (@KyleNeubeck) July 12, 2019
While it's certainly a positive sign, this news should definitely not be blown out of proportion. First of all, video clips of Simmons hitting consecutive long-range shots already exist. There is no doubt Simmons has the ability to hit these shots in warmups and practice, but it's a different thing entirely for him to start draining 3s in an NBA game.
Secondly, these were wide-open shots in a casual one-on-one. Before people start hyping the appearance of a Simmons shooting stroke, we'll have to see it against actual NBA defenders.
Simmons is talented enough to develop at least a passable 3-point shot. It'd be shocking if he never developed one, considering how the league is so focused on the 3-pointer these days.
Perhaps this will be the year Simmons actually forces defenses to respect him from beyond the arc. Sixers fans will keep their eyes peeled for his first NBA 3-pointer.
Follow Us
Subscribe