I think Ben has been steady across 4 years
Stunning how steady years 1-4.
Rare to see such a player show no growth in any area from the moment he comes into the league.
The per 36 completely flatlined, well actually, FGA, boards, assists...all down.
This fascination with Ben Simmons is extraordinary. Even so canny a set of Trader Vics as Facil and BoD, literally salivate at the notion of giving away substantial portions of one's roster and draft assets to bring this petulant pup in to the fold, be it for the Knicks or some divisional rival.
Does what he accomplishes exceptionally well, and do his mouth watering physical attributes, out weigh what he does poorly and which seem to in no way motivate him to improve.
Mostly for me, ignorant as I clearly appear to be, it comes down to CHARACTER. And LEADERSHIP.
Look at someone like the Rockets Jaamal Murray. Who has gotten better EVERY SEASON, and who
rises to the challenge of the biggest games.
Ben Simmons Contract?
$33,003,936 $35,448,672 $37,893,408 $40,338,144
As of October 1st, the Sixers [and whomever else is lucky enough to enlist this spoiled little creep] are contractually bound to give him ONE HALF OF ENTIRE YEARLY SALARY out front. That's roughly what the Knics are paying Evan Fournier for the first year of his contract. It's as if Phil Jackson crafted Gentle Ben's max deal, with an eye towards handcuffing his own team. I readily admit that everyone else is right and I am wrong in my assessment of Ben Simmons as a talent, and that compelling arguments can be made for papering over his hoops failings. He brings THAT MUCH TO THE TABLE.
He also brings along a brutal contract and a woeful lack of maturity.
I would rather have Derrick and Kemba in matching blue and orange wheelchairs, that Ben on a golden platter.