The Philadelphia 76ers put a stamp on their heated series with the Miami Heat on Tuesday with a 104-91 win to advance to the next round. Point guard Ben Simmons even earned the respect of shooting guard Dwayne Wade in the process.
Simmons has already been compared to Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James for his versatile skill set and freakish athleticism. According to Ben Golliver of Sports Illustrated, Wade confirmed that notion after the game:
“I don't think he had a bad game. A young player like that in his first playoffs… It's like that guy in Cleveland doesn't have bad games. The imprint they put on the game, it's more than scoring. He does so much. The sky is the limit.”
Needless to say, there is plenty of truth to Wade's comments. Simmons has followed up on an impressive rookie campaign by leading the Sixers to their first playoff series win since 2012. The former No. 1 overall pick is averaging 18.2 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game thus far in the postseason. That said, he continues to make a compelling case as the second coming of the Cavs star.
Much like James, Simmons largely runs the offense as a point forward which makes him a triple-double threat every game. Their scoring prowess on the inside and uncanny passing ability make them matchup nightmares for any team. However, Simmons also possesses the same weakness as a young James in his inability to shoot the three. Although it has hardly been an area of concern up to this point, Simmons may have to consider expanding his range if he wants to become the heir apparent to James' throne.
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