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NBA Community Divided as Ben Simmons Displays Improved Shooting in Brooklyn Nets Practice

Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers breathed a sigh of relief after they traded for Ben Simmons. The former All-Star faced toms of scrutiny after letting off an open dunk in the playoffs last season. Since then, the Simmons saga began, and he didn’t play a single game for the Sixers this season. However, years after being called a shooting liability, it seems like Simmons is working to make his shot better.

Ben Simmons working with Kyle Korver at Nets practice today.

pic.twitter.com/BUGxq9OegO

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 23, 2022

The saga between the Sixers and Ben Simmons lasted for the entire first half of the season. There were all the ups and downs, but nothing led to any significant movement. So after absorbing heavy fines from the All-Star guard, the Sixers got the opportunity of a lifetime and traded in James Harden for Simmons. This came as a breakthrough for them, with Embiid in his prime and Harden being one of the most decorated scorers in the league.

But it seems Simmons didn’t just listen to the criticism on the sidelines. The new Nets man was spotted working on his shooting and NBA fans had their mixed feelings.

WATCH THIS STORY: Ben Simmons’ Blockbuster Nets Debut, Stephen Curry vs Damian Lillard, and Other Moments to Look Out for After NBA All-Star Game

Ben Simmons erasing his weakness?

Simmons has had many positives as a tall guard in the league. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, Ben can defend any guard in the league with ease. Moreover, his passing abilities are often overlooked with the defense he brings to the table. However, the one downfall to his game as a point guard has been his poor shooting. Simmons has hit just 5 three-pointers in his entire career so far. But it seems like things may change.

After being acquired by the Nets, Simmons has been spotted working on his shooting. Now, he is working with one of the most renowned shooters, Kyle Korver, who is a development coach with the Nets. While there is no guarantee of how things will turn out, Simmons is coming in with a positive approach.

It’s over for the league Embiid better be scared

— ً (@BolWrld) February 23, 2022

Wait till he gotta come to philly for the first round of the playoffs https://t.co/FyHITzntcX

— Nick.P (@PichecoN) February 24, 2022

still shooting with the wrong hand I can’t win https://t.co/X9s6UNoJHO

— Pranay (ONLYHOOPS)(41-19) (@0nlyHoops) February 24, 2022

All other 29 #NBA teams better sound THE FUCKING ALARMS https://t.co/VBR2FDsvQy

— Isaiah Wilhite (@isaiah_wilhite) February 24, 2022

You ever have an ex tell you they were working on getting better but you knew they were the same old person. Well there they go again. https://t.co/7MDDZWM75U

— Bertans Nub (@Blabbit_) February 23, 2022

KK my guy I love you but idk if it’s gonna help. https://t.co/i0Sdo9OUW7

— Ashley (@AshWorld95) February 24, 2022

Ben Simmons vs the 76ers https://t.co/lwVe50LaMh pic.twitter.com/TdcoKQ7t1B

— Cedric Homan (@CedricHoman) February 24, 2022

Before this, the 25-year-old was not looking into his weakness, and hence there was no significant improvement. However, now Simmons is acknowledging what part of his game needs time and accordingly working to improve. If he does develop a jump shot, his potential could skyrocket as a player. Already being one of the top defenders in the league, Simmons could become a master scorer in the category of Giannis Antetokounmpo if he could develop a consistent jump shot.

For now, his offensive game depends mostly on interior scoring and dunks with most of his shots coming from within 9 ft of the basket last season. With a jump shot, his coexistence with Kevin Durant and Kyrie could see new heights. The Nets trio will have both defense and offense on offer.

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But it is too early to dwell. Simmons is only just beginning his process to improve and all good things take time. Hence, the former number 1 pick will need his time to produce the appropriate results.

The post NBA Community Divided as Ben Simmons Displays Improved Shooting in Brooklyn Nets Practice appeared first on EssentiallySports.