5 Reasons Why Ben Simmons Will Be The Next LeBron James

By Geoffrey Knox

Is it safe to say we’re watching something special? Obviously, we can all agree on that. When we see talent at the Ben Simmons level, comparisons are inevitable. For a while, every great talent was compared to Michael Jordan. Truthfully, the closest thing we had to Jordan was Kobe Bryant. LeBron James was also compared to Jordan, but that’s actually not accurate either. In terms of how their games are played, LeBron was closer to Magic Johnson than he was to Jordan. Time will tell if Simmons gets to that level, but here are five reasons why it’s possible.

5 Reasons Why Ben Simmons Will Be The Next LeBron James

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Charisma — Expect every conversation about an LSU game to be focused on Ben Simmons. Expect Simmons to be the guy people want to talk to following the game. Expect the press and reporters to do everything they can to get a photo or get a statement from the player who's obviously the most popular and polarizing figure in college basketball today. Simmons has the charisma, charm and good looks to handle it. Does that remind you of anybody else we know?

Both Had NBA Talent In High School — When LeBron entered the league, you were still able to leave high school and go straight to the NBA. Well, that robbed the college game in so many ways. Rules were created that changed the landscape, and these days, you have to fulfill one year at the collegiate level before moving on to the greener pastures of the professional stage. Make no mistake though, if Simmons had the option, he would have moved on to the NBA following his senior year of high school. He has that type of ability.

He Will Average Double Figures In At Least Two Categories — Simmons is a floor general and handles the ball like a point guard even though he's 6-foot-10. Any issues with getting his shot off and he finds the open man and does the smart thing with the ball. You only need to reference his 10 assist performance against NC State. He's a problem on the offensive and defensive glass; and if you forget to box him out, it may lead to extended possessions or the ball going in the other direction. He averages double figures in points and rebounds, will do so for the remainder of the year and will take that skill set to the next level.

Makes His Teammates Are Better — Say what you will, but we don't hear complaints about LeBron from teammates. Some stars see their teams get better because they're on the court, but they don't elevate anybody other than themselves. Some stars, like Simmons, get the other guys involved, are constantly exchanging high fives and finding that open teammate. That builds team, trust and makes the other guys want to play with and for you. Simmons is mastering that. LeBron already has. See the similarity?

The NBA Gets Another Instant Star — Part of the NBA's success or failure (depending on what side you're on) is the individual stars are normally more important than the teams. As soon as LeBron showed up, he was a star. Cleveland created a microwave fanbase, many of which moved to Miami when LeBron did, and they moved right back to Cleveland when LeBron came back. LeBron's still the second-most popular jersey in the NBA. Is there reason to believe Simmons won't hit the top five when he shows up? The NBA wins again and gets another face to give instant credibility and attention to whatever team he lands on.

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