"I still can't, f**k, I can't make everybody happy, you know?" – Ben Simmons openly says he can’t fulfill every expectation of the fans, says his focus is on playing his role for the team
While Ben Simmons is a high-level basketball talent, he is criticized for one thing. Dating back to his college days, he has always shown a reluctance to shoot the ball from beyond the arc.
During his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, videos were constantly put out of him working on his jumper before games. However, once the tipoff came, it never translated.
In 275 games, the former No. 1 pick has only attempted 34 3-pointers. Of that bunch, he made just five.
Even though Simmons has changed teams, the narrative continues to follow him. After a handful of preseason games, Brooklyn Nets fans are already encouraging him to expand his game out to the perimeter.
During a recent interview with Nick Friedell of ESPN, the three-time All-Star touched on the topic. He said he couldn't please everyone, and compared himself to Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo:
"They're going to say that regardless. Even if I hit a shot, what are they going to say? 'I still can't.' F---, I can't make everybody happy, you know? ... That's like saying, 'Can Giannis [Antetokounmpo] shoot? Can he?'"
Ben Simmons not shooting isn't as much of an issue now with the Brooklyn Nets
There is no way around it. If Ben Simmons truly wants to be great, he will need to add a 3-point shot to his arsenal. Until the defense has to defend him further out, he won't be able to fully use his speed and athleticism to his advantage.
That being said, this weak spot isn't as much of a factor as it used to be. While on the Sixers, spacing was an issue because of multiple players. Simmons could have alleviated some pressure by taking 3s, but he wasn't the sole cause.
Now with the Brooklyn Nets, spacing is not an issue. Their roster is loaded with 3-point specialists and stars who can initate offense on the outside. Next to Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, Simmons could be put in a better position to succeed on the offensive end.
Not being a perimeter threat might cause issues at times, but it won't be as glaring as it used to be in Philadelphia. Because of the talent on the Nets roster, the shortcomings in his game can be hidden better. Now, he can focus on being an elite-level facilitator and defender.
Nets fans might want their new All-Star to untap his game more. But based on his comments, they might have to wait some time to get results.