3 reasons why a Ben Simmons-to-Warriors trade won’t work

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 14: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Brooklyn Nets at the Wells Fargo Center on April 14, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Nets 123-117. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 14: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Brooklyn Nets at the Wells Fargo Center on April 14, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The 76ers defeated the Nets 123-117. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
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Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Why Warriors won’t trade for Ben Simmons: Shooting

Let’s talk about Ben Simmons’ shooting.

With players like Al Horford and Marc Gasol, who came into the league without much of a shot, having started becoming competent three-point shooters, it begs the question why can’t Simmons follow in their steps. Is it due to inability? Does he not want to shoot more?

Whatever the reason, Simmons’ shooting hasn’t improved since he’s been in the league. Simmons shot ten threes last season. He shot 11 as a rookie. He’s taking over 90 percent of his attempts from within ten feet.

While he has shot over 50 percent from the field in each of his four seasons, Simmons, especially given Draymond Green‘s mysterious decline from deep, needs to be able to help space the court.

If he can’t Simmons would virtually make James Wiseman unplayable as having three non-shooters would force defenses to easily double- or even triple-team Curry.

His dominance in transition would work for a while, but in the postseason, the Warriors may need more help from him in the halfcourt. The 25-year-old do-it-all guard can start with simply stepping out to take mid-range jumpers more.

Until he can prove he’s working on improving his shot, teams, especially the Warriors, should stay away.