“Ben Simmons is a freak athlete like LeBron James”: NBA executives are still comparing Ben to the Lakers star despite his playoff struggles

NBA executives believe that Ben Simmons is as gifted as LeBron James when it comes to athleticism.

The first pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, Simmons was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers. The 6-foot-11 point guard is a physical specimen.

Simmons averaged 15.8 PPG, 8.2 APG, and 8.1 RPG in his rookie season as he shot 54.5% from the field. The Aussie player was crowned Rookie of the Year at the end of his first season with the 76ers.

Many pundits and analysts believed that Simmons had the capability of a potential superstar, even comparing him to the likes of LeBron James.

The former Rookie of the Year was dominant on both ends of the floor, his ability to pass and make plays for his team, coupled with his high basketball IQ, set him apart from the other rookies in the league.

Also read: “Ben Simmons with Stephen Curry = Ring guaranteed!”: NBA Analyst Stephen A Smith makes a bold claim about a trade package the Warriors can pursue

However, Simmons’ shooting was always a limitation in his ability to grow as a player. In his 3 seasons till now, the 24-year old has shot a dismal 14.7% from the 3-point line and 59.7% from the free-throw line.

Television personality and Stephen A. Smith has often been quoted saying, “Ben Simmons Is A Jump Shot Away From Being The Second Coming Of Lebron.”

Both LeBron and Simmons are represented by Rich Paul, who is one of the most popular agents in the NBA.

Ben Simmons has the potential to be the next LeBron James

Simmons has often looked at the Lakers superstar as an inspiration:

“We’re definitely brothers, I got a lot of respect for him, just coming through college, high school. Looking up to him and then being able to compete against somebody like that and me progressing my game to playing the same level  and compete with the best it’s an amazing feeling.”

The King has been very vocal in his appreciation for the Philly star on various occasions as well. LeBron believes that the sky is the limit for the 24-year old and the fact that he has the potential to be one of the greatest.

Many NBA executives still believe that the 3x NBA All-Star is one of the most gifted players when it comes to athleticism.

“He has freakish athletic ability, almost like LeBron James in that area.”

Also read: “LeBron James would tell Ben Simmons to switch hands”: Channing Frye urges Sixers star to start shooting with his right hand after playoff shooting struggles

Simmons had a very disappointing post-season this year. The Aussie player was heavily criticized for his free-throw shooting, especially during the clutch moments of the match. The 24-year old was a major reason for the ouster of the 76ers in the eastern conference semi-finals.

There have been reports doing the rounds of 76ers exploring the possibility of trading Simmons during the coming off-season. The LA Lakers as well are in trade talks with various teams for acquiring a point guard to join the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

However, Simmons’ inability to shoot and his expensive contract make LA an unfavorable destination for him.