"He doesn't go aggressive isn't because he's afraid of missing the shot" – Brian Windhorst asserts Ben Simmons is deterred to play aggressively, believes he’s still adjusting to negativity from past
Ben Simmons' slow start to the season has been a big talking point. After missing all of last season, it was clear that Simmons would take some time to get back in game shape.
Simmons is averaging only 5.6 points per game so far and his lack of aggression to score has come into question.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently offered an analysis of what could be plaguing Simmons this year. Windhorst claimed that he spoke to NBA scouts and they have an opinion on what’s going on with Ben Simmons:
"Believe the reason that he doesn't go aggressive isn't because he's afraid of missing the shot, as much as he's afraid of being fouled."
In the Nets' game against the Bucks, there was a moment where Kyrie Irving passed the ball to Simmons and said “shoot”, but Simmons decided to pass it to Kevin Durant. It seemed like Simmons had a good look to take the shot.
"The scouts who have been dispatched to watch Ben Simmons closely - and there have been a lot early in this season - believe the reason that he doesn't go aggressive isn't because he's afraid of missing the shot, as much as he's afraid of being fouled."
— Brian Windhorst https://t.co/Qoih5NNEKQ
Through the teams' first five games, Simmons is averaging only 5.4 field goals attempts per game. This is very low for someone who is playing around 30 minutes per game. By not being aggressive and driving to the basket, Simmons will not get many chances from the free-throw line.
This goes to the scouts' point where they believe he is afraid to get fouled. It is clear Simmons doesn't like to shoot the ball and may feel that same way about free throws. He is currently three of nine from the free-throw line this season.
In four seasons in Philly, Simmons shot 59.7% from the line. While this isn't a great number, it's much higher than the 33% he is currently shooting.
Ben Simmons’ foul trouble and Steve Nash's ejection alarming for the Nets
Simmons has fouled out twice in five games this season. He is averaging 4.5 fouls per game this season. In his career, he has averaged 2.8 fouls per game.
Simmons is regarded as an elite defender in the league and one of the few who can guard one-to-five. However, that has not been the case so far this season.
The team is 1-4 and it does not appear to be getting any better. Coach Steve Nash was ejected against the Milwaukee Bucks game after Simmons was called for a soft foul.
The frustration is getting to Nash and if the team's performances do not improve soon, he could lose his job. The Nets' next two games are against the Indiana Pacers at home.