NBA fans are ruthless toward former Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons for a variety of reasons.
For once, the hatred is a bit unwarranted. Simmons posted a photo to his Instagram story Monday of him and former Sixers teammate Matisse Thybulle working out together. It didn't take long before the public began digging in on the ex-Philadelphia backcourt's lack of shooting prowess.
The No. 1 pick of the 2016 NBA Draft and his lockdown partner played two seasons together in Philadelphia. It was the two best campaigns of Simmons' career, earning an All-Star selection in each. Alternatively, Thybulle came in as a late first-round pick and made an immediate impact on the defensive end.
As the community was quick to point out, defense was never an issue. It was the shooting, specifically from 3-point range. Thybulle shot less than 36% from the arc in his first three seasons, knocking down a career-low 313% in 2022.
While scouts knew Simmons' shot needed serious work coming out of LSU, most expected the improvements to come with time. Instead, he did not even attempt a 3-point shot until his third year. He has yet to shoot more than 30% in his eight years in the NBA.
With the harsh ending between Simmons and Philadelphia, it should come as no surprise to see the internet pouncing at this opportunity.
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