Watch: Ben Simmons working on his jumpshot during pickup games
Ben Simmons is a highly-talented player whose abilities helped him become the No. 1 draft pick and eventually earn a max contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite the things he does well — pass, rebound and defend at the point guard position — he has a glaring weakness when it comes to his outside shooting.
Simmons almost refuses to take outside shots in games. Even though we’re in an age in the NBA where big men are stretching the floor and outside shooting is a valued skill, Simmons has only attempted 17 3-pointers during his entire two seasons in the league. The lack of a threat of an outside shot from him makes him and the Sixers easier to defend, especially in the playoffs.
But this video shows the work Simmons is doing on his shot this offseason:
Ben Simmons has been putting in work on that jumper
(via @swishcultures_, @ChrisJHoops) pic.twitter.com/nsxjM31YK1
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) August 22, 2019
Last year there was talk about Simmons possibly switching to shooting with his right hand rather than his left. He seems to be sticking with his left and potentially improving.
If Simmons can integrate an outside shot and improve his free throw shooting, he would be on a pathway to being dominant.
