Nightmare Ben Simmons problem that will not go away at this point

With a generational frame, Ben Simmons has magnificent potential on paper for the LA Clippers. He has all the tangibles to be an all-time legend with a long wingspan, high vertical leap, and quick feet that can seamlessly stretch the 94 feet of the court.

He took major advantage of his qualities at LSU and submitted his name to the draft as one of the most memorable prospects of the 21st century. It is no wonder he averaged 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 4.8 assists for the Tigers.

Prior to career-changing turn for the former first-overall pick, Simmons was a rising superstar on both ends of the court for the Philadelphia 76ers. Their front office made the correct choice with the highest possible pick, but injuries derailed the type of player he could have been.

Moreover, Simmons' repeated issues erupt from the appropriate mindset to remain confident and the decision between when to pass and when to shoot. There should be no reason a player his size should dish the ball directly under the goal.

Yet, Simmons is folding to the same blunders he did as a 76er.

Ben Simmons' old ways are slowing the Clippers down more than it may seem

The LA Clippers chose to employ Ben Simmons because of his size and agility between the lines of the hardwood. He can handle the ball under pressure without turning it over while defending any player on a comfortable base.

In 17 games for head coach Tyronn Lue, Simmons has posted 3.1 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. These statistics are certainly nothing off the charts, but rest assured, he is playing in an oddly specific bench role.

On the contrary, Simmons has demonstrated his flaws and did so once more in game 82 versus the Golden State Warriors. This was a nail-biter, and the Clippers would have loved to receive any positive contribution in the second unit.

Furthermore, in the first half, Simmons had the ball at his fingertips on a fast break, decelerated perfectly to the rim with no defender to contest, and passed the rock to Derrick Jones Jr., who was fouled and went one-for-two at the strike.

That said, though Simmons has excelled in some areas, his confidence will be a decisive factor in the front office's judgment to re-sign him as an unrestricted free agent.

If he does land a call from executive Lawrence Frank to stay in LA, it will likely not eclipse $4 million annually.