Tiger Sport
TigerSport Football and Basketball Game Analysis
07-22 21:36Views 3741
The article argues Ben Simmons is a surprisingly logical fit for the Phoenix Suns despite his reputation. Phoenix possesses elite scorers in Devin Booker and Jalen Green, but both function best off-ball. The team's primary need isn't another high-volume scorer; it's a point guard who can facilitate, play high-level defense without demanding touches, and guard the opponent's best wing player.
Alternative options like Josh Giddey are dismissed due to poor defensive metrics, which would create a disastrous perimeter defense alongside Booker and Green. The article critiques the previous Booker/Beal/Kevin Durant trio as fundamentally flawed. Durant, unable to defend or facilitate effectively at his age, choked the offense into isolation plays and created defensive liabilities, contributing to the team missing the playoffs.
In contrast, Simmons is presented as a defensive asset. His accolades (3x All-Star, All-NBA, 2x All-Defensive) and 6'10" frame make him a versatile defender capable of guarding positions 1 through 4, rebounding, and pushing the ball in transition with elite passing vision when healthy. Phoenix doesn't require peak offensive Simmons; they need him focused on facilitating and defending.
A potential starting lineup featuring Simmons at point guard alongside Booker, Green, Durant, and Nurkic is suggested. While unconventional, Simmons' defense and playmaking would allow Booker and Green to play their natural scoring roles effectively. He provides the necessary defensive glue and primary ball-handling.
The article acknowledges Simmons' career struggles (injuries, confidence, media pressure in Philadelphia and New York) but contends Phoenix offers a less intense environment. He needs a market that won't scrutinize every move or criticize unselfish play, making Phoenix a potentially ideal fit for revival.
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