Ben Simmons of the Sixers and LeBron James of the Lakers are both represented by Klutch Sports agent Rich Paul. They both have tremendous size for players that handle the ball so much, and they are two of the more unique players in the NBA because of their skill sets and athleticism. Washington Wizards head coach Scott Brooks certainly sees the similarities.
Brooks compared Simmons to LeBron ahead of Washington's showdown with the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night:
Scott Brooks on 76ers star Ben Simmons: "That guy is as close to LeBron James in strength, size…"
— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) December 5, 2019
Simmons is hardly the same kind of scoring threat that James is–or was–because he does not shoot from the perimeter. He also does not get to the free-throw line as often. But Simmons is not asked to score nearly as much as LeBron. However, the physical attributes speak more to the similarities between the two as well as Simmons' continued development as an individual defender.
The former No. 1 overall pick currently leads the NBA with 2.4 steals per game, and he is able to guard point guards because of his length and activity. LeBron was very similar in his heyday, locking down the likes of Derrick Rose during the 2011 Eastern Conference Finals.
Brad Botkin of CBS Sports broke down what drives Simmons' success on the defensive:
What makes Simmons great? For starters, he reads the floor on defense the way a great point guard does on offense — the way Simmons does on offense, actually. He is almost always one step ahead. He makes multiple efforts; when he hits one screen he doesn't stop playing.
It is no wonder Simmons can barrel through screens. He is practically a 7-footer and weighs 230 pounds.
Both Simmons and LeBron have that “bowling ball” effect when they get going downhill or get into the body of opposing ball handlers.
Brooks and the Wizards will hope to halt the Sixers' winning streak.
Follow Us
Subscribe