8. Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers
2018-19 stats: 16.9 ppg, 7.7 assists, 8.8 rebounds
Along with Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons is a building block for a Philadelphia 76ers franchise that is definitely on the come up. They had a solid playoff run last year, only to lose to the Raptors in seven games in the Conference semifinals.
The Australian point guard has been a huge piece of their success over the last couple of years. His all-around game of bringing down boards, facilitating the ball, and finishing at the rim has made him one of the most exciting point guards in the game. The only thing that he has been missing is a jump shot. Simmons attempted just one 3-pointer all of last season, and rarely even takes jumpers.
But this offseason he has reportedly been working on that aspect of his game. If he can become a better shooter, it’s going to take his game to a whole another level and make him a top-five player in this league. Between his size, athleticism, strength, and competitive nature, if you add a quality jump shot as well, Simmons is going to be a serious threat to oppositions. Add in his gritty, physical defensive style of play and you have a very good player who is ready to lead Philly into greatness.
Simmons has all the tools to be one of the best players in league history to ever dribble a basketball. And the scary part – for the rest of the league – is that he’s still only 23 years old.