The ‘Ben Simmons power forward’ transformation has been deployed by the 76ers and Embiid reveals how it is impacting the team.
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76ers coach Brett Brown confirmed the news on a conference call from Orlando on Monday.
Although this move was rumored for months, the 76ers have finally decided to try it in the Orlando bubble.
Simmons has remarkable dynamic ability to play as a power forward. The former Rookie of the Year award winner has been unable to space the floor as a point guard. The 76ers have been trying various combinations for their two all-stars to form a formidable duo. With the duo dominating the front court and having shooters and a secondary playmaker to back them seems ideal for them.
Ben Simmons Power forward- Joel Embiid reacts
Joel Embiid gave his approval for the move and also mentioned that sharp-shooter Shake Milton is been practicing as a point guard.The center said, “I think he’s going to be great. Since I’ve been here I felt like we’ve had a great partnership,”
Embiid emphasised on Simmons’ defensive play and his ability to really push the transition as major factors behind this move. Simmons’ ability as a shooter has always been questioned and thus this move could actually make use of his strengths and nullify his weaknesses.
This move would push former Celtics’ star Al Horford to the bench. The all-star added the following:
“I feel like this move will even be better than being a starting point guard because he is so great defensively. Offensively, when he has a chance he is probably one of the fastest guys in the league. Just getting rebounds, pushing the transition, and finding shooters. In half-court play we can use him in a lot of ways. Pick and roll or we could play out of the post. I think we’re going to be great.”
Ben Simmons is an All-Star point guard. But I consider him an All-Universe point forward. He’s been practicing at PF down at Disney. I asked Brett Brown did he have to sell the #Sixers standout on the move. Here’s his response: pic.twitter.com/TU7CyOuscH
— Keith Pompey (@PompeyOnSixers) July 13, 2020
Joel Embiid also highlighted Simmons’ weaknesses and strengths. The 2-time all-star seems too athletic and dynamic for the point guard position. His height and defensive abilities highlight his potential to play as a power forward. His lack of shooting ability and spacing the floor have exposed him as a point guard.
How do they 76ers line up now?
The starting five of Milton, Simmons, Embiid, Harris and Richardson seems the starting five for the 76ers when the league restarts in Orlando. Although coach Brett has been satisfied with their performances, the starters don’t have enough time to develop chemistry amongst themselves. The 76ers will hope that Simmons and Embiid will overpower their counterparts.
Milton has been shooting well as per Embiid. Simmons averages 16.7 points, 7.8 rebounds 8.2 assists, and 2.1 steals per game this season. Embiid averages 23.4 points and 11.8 rebounds this season.
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What’s next for the 76ers?
The 76ers are currently tied with the Pacers for the fifth spot. They have a win loss record of 39-26 this season. Coach Brett Brown will hope that his latest tactical change will unlock his team’s massive potential. The 76ers are the dark-horses in the eastern conference. Several pundits expect them to make a deep run into the playoffs. If not, the team might undergo a radical shift next season.
