With the additions the LA Clippers have made, their roster is much more suited to make a deep playoff run. They have legitimate bench pieces and tons of experience paired up with their stars and a genius coaching staff.
The most recent pickup, Ben Simmons, a three-time all-star, will make a night and day difference off the bench. He will jump into a similar role as former MVP Russell Westbrook had over the years, except Simmons could be better.
Additionally, given how this season has panned out for Simmons, he appears capable of finishing the season on a healthy note.
Nonetheless, written below are three instant reactions to LA adding a talented point forward on both ends of the court.
3. Ben Simmons joins the Clippers’ bench as a big man
With backup big Drew Eubanks handling the center duties, Ben Simmons will be the power forward off the bench. This is a role he has played in stretches before, despite being listed as a point guard through his seven years in the NBA.
Furthermore, Simmons will bring the best out of his new teammate, Bogdan Bogdanović, who has not been good this season efficiency-wise.
This impact will likely come from fast breaks and transition plays, as Simmons can use his size and vision to locate Bogdanović for wide-open shot attempts.
2. Ben Simmons takes away the ball-handling duties from James Harden and Kawhi Leonard
In certain lineups, Tyronn Lue will have Ben Simmons take the ball up, allowing Kawhi Leonard and James Harden to focus more in the half-court set. This also conserves their energy, as handling the ball is an overlooked responsibility.
Although the Clippers have employed countless point guards since Leonard signed, Simmons is the best. He is still young, in shape, and the most unique, given his size and potential.
The Clippers made basketball much easier for their two superstars by adding Simmons.
1. Ben Simmons will produce most off the ball for the LA Clippers
When Kawhi Leonard or James Harden anticipate a double team, they immediately look to the midrange area, where players like Ivica Zubac or Kris Dunn catch the ball and choose to shoot or assist a high-quality look.
With Simmons, Tyronn Lue can set up shots for Norman Powell and alley-oops for Zubac and Derrick Jones Jr.
Additionally, if Simmons constantly moves behind defenses, open looks will inevitably find the team’s top scorers.
Simmons can also use his size to set off-ball screens to roll to the basket or set up someone like Powell for an open three.