A Consistency Behind Ben Simmons’ Struggles
There is no doubt the Sixers are a better team with Ben Simmons. Since Ben’s first game with the Sixers, they hold a 15-17 record when he doesn’t play and a 177-103 when he does.
However, in his 11 games played since the All-Star break, Simmons has averaged just 12.9 points on 45% from the field, 56.5% from the line, and 6.2 assists.
The last time we saw Ben in an extended form slump was the start of the season. In the first 13 games of the season, Simmons averaged just 12.2 points per game. At the start of the 2019-20 season in his first 20 games, he averaged just 13 PPG.
There’s a clear consistency around these form slumps; they always seem to come after not playing for a period of time.
This year in the 9 games prior to the All-Star break and two-game COVID-19 protocol layoff, Simmons was playing at an All NBA First Team level averaging 22.2 points per game with a 69% FG% and 75% FT%. All whilst demonstrating the playmaking he’s been known for his whole career and making a serious case for Defensive Player of the Year. This was probably Ben’s best stretch of basketball throughout his career. Then back in the 2019-20 season, for the 20 games, before he went down with a serious back injury, Simmons averaged 21 PPG with a 62% FG%. We know Ben can perform at this level for extended periods when he gets an extended run at it.
This stark contrast has to make you question – how much is he picking up a basketball and hitting the gym when he’s off? When he’s come back he’s lacked touch, finesse, and body control when driving to the basket.
His decision-making and playmaking have also been off during these slumps this season. When Ben loses this, suddenly he’s almost a liability on the offensive end, especially compared to the dominant force we know he can be.
Making the assumption Simmons isn’t putting in the work could be unfair. Perhaps it’s more the mental side of the game and he needs to play game after game to get in a flow. Whatever it is, there is a clear consistency with these form slumps coming off-breaks, and the Sixers coaching staff need to be asking why.
The awesome numbers when Ben has been on the floor for an extended period indicate that if he and the Sixers can recognize and resolve the reason why he’s returning to the court a shadow of himself, Ben Simmons can still be one of 10 best players in the world.
Featured Image: Philly Voice
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