USA Today via Reuters
Apr 26, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) saves a ball headed out of bounds during the first quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 26, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) saves a ball headed out of bounds during the first quarter against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
Philadelphia 76ers head coach Doc Rivers seems to find a striking similarity between their notable star, Ben Simmons, and Magic Johnson.
This season, Ben Simmons is averaging 14.4 PPG, 7.3 RPG, and 6.8 APG for the Sixers. While Philadelphia’s versatile guard is finding his way to the top of the DPOY ladder, he is also one of the most talented playmakers of the league.
After a staggering season, Doc Rivers’ team currently stands at the top of the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, Ben’s crucial presence was tested when he recently sat out of four consecutive games due to injury. The 76ers were found on the losing end at all times.
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Doc Rivers lauds Ben Simmons and his playmaking skill
In a recent conversation with Danny Green on ‘Inside the Green Room’, Doc exhibited a keen insight into Simmons’ playmaking technique. The coach set a close comparison of his star player with former 5-time NBA champion, Magic Johnson.
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 26, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) scores past Oklahoma City Thunder forward Darius Bazley (7) during the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
Considering that many have compared the 24-year-old’s abilities to Stephen Curry, the 76ers coach adds a valid counter to the same.
Speaking about Simmons’ restricted ability in making threes, Doc mentioned, “Just because Ben doesn’t shoot threes, doesn’t mean he doesn’t create threes. He is the lead in threes creating.”
“Before the three-point line was really popular, there was a guy named Magic Johnson, and no one cared that he didn’t make threes or shoot threes; they just loved how Magic played. I wish we could look at Ben more like that,” the 76ers coach added.
Simmons brings immense talent to 76ers’ plate
Even though Simmons isn’t a frequent three-point shooter, but he does resemble Magic in a lot of ways.
His eye for cutting in, making accurate passes, and his playmaking strategies tend to distinguish his skillset from Curry. Moreover, Simmons plays a huge role in Philadelphia’s defense. He is toggling the first spot for DPOY’21 with Rudy Gobert at the moment.
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The 3-time NBA All-star has been in the league for merely five years. Well, he is already being named against legends such as Magic Johnson. Being an asset to his side, Simmons may have a high chance at greater achievements in his career ahead.
