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Kevin Durant Plays Down LeBron James Comparisons for Ben Simmons
On the trade deadline day of the 2021-22 NBA season, the basketball world was taken by storm. Two players who wanted a change of scenery would exchange teams. These two are none other than Ben Simmons and James Harden.
Although Harden’s effect has been noticeable on the 76ers, Simmons is yet to play a game for the Nets. However, on paper, it appears as though Simmons is a great fit. As a playmaker, rebounder, and defender, Simmons can complement the others on his team.
Mar 10, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons (10) during warmups before the game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
This has led to people sometimes comparing him to LeBron James because of their similar styles of play. However, Simmons’ new teammate, Kevin Durant, shut down this comparison. He explained how Simmons is a unique player who can benefit the scorers on the team.
Kevin Durant on Ben Simmons
In the post-game interview following the win over the 76ers, Kevin Durant addressed a question regarding the Simmons–LeBron comparison and how Simmons would fit in with the team.
“I don’t look at Ben and see LeBron. I just look at a unique player who’s trying to carve his own lane out in the league and he’s done that so far,” said KD.
“I’m looking forward to see what it looks like out there on the floor. When he’s got scorers around him like Seth, myself, Ky, Cam, Patty, Goran, I wanna see how it looks,” he added.
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Thereafter, Durant added that Simmons’ ‘work and his play’ will answer the doubts once he starts playing. Clearly, Durant has Simmons’ back. He believes Simmons differs from LeBron James and is a special player who can benefit the team.
In Conclusion
On paper, the Nets look phenomenal. Although they let go of Harden and Millsap, they got back some exciting pieces in return. Alongside Simmons, Seth Curry and Andre Drummond joined the Nets. So it’s quite possible for Simmons to be a good fit because he’s with his old teammates and also because of his style of play.
Mar 10, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Kevin Durant (7) and guard Ben Simmons (10) on the bench late in the fourth quarter of win against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Simmons and LeBron might be similar. But that does not mean that Simmons will have the same career trajectory as LeBron. Not that he will not be as successful as the ‘King’. It is only to explain that the possibilities for him are endless since he is still a young player. If he adds shooting range to his arsenal, he could become a superstar of the league. Regardless, and like KD mentioned, Simmons makes his own path and is already a special player. Hopefully, his presence will benefit the Nets and bring the title to Brooklyn.
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