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One NBA Scout Already Saw The Ben Simmons Dilemma Coming In 2016

As you all know, Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers are in the midst of an ugly divorce. Their likely parting was initially triggered by Simmons’ performances in these past playoffs.

In 12 playoff games, Simmons only averaged 11.9 points per game and shot 34% from the free-throw line, missing 48 free throws in total. On the top of that, in the decisive Game 7 of their seven-game series against the Hawks, Simmons passed up a wide open shot that could’ve tied the game during the closing minutes.

His non-existent shooting and his passiveness offensively is one of the main reasons Simmons hasn’t been able to really propel into the NBA superstar league yet, where most people expected him to be by now. It also is the reason why the his situation in Philadelphia is the way it is right now, paired with a what appears to be difficult character.

Jonathan Givony of Draft Express though, already saw it coming years ago, before the Sixers selected Ben Simmons with their first pick of the 2016 NBA Draft.

“Simmons’ lack of competitiveness in crucial games has raised questions about his character … Those who know him best say he needs things to revolve around him on and off the court and that he’s often been close-minded to coaching or instruction.”

Went on the WIP Morning show in Philadelphia to talk about my 2016 scouting report on Ben Simmons (https://t.co/HXXmpSWCSJ) which, unfortunately for the 76ers, has proven to be prescient. pic.twitter.com/VAs7LgpjL7

— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) October 21, 2021