Philadelphia 76ers: 3 reasons why the Sixers will win the Eastern Conference

Reason No. 1 why the Philadelphia 76ers will win the East: Ben Simmon has bought into a clear, defined role

In the past, part of Philly’s disappointments has fallen on the shoulders of Ben Simmons. Whether it was because of his inability to hit a consistent jump shot or his lack of aggressiveness, Simmons has left much to be desired as the team’s No. 2 option. However, this season, Simmons knows his role and the Sixers know it too. That will help ease the pressure on his shoulders heading into the playoffs.

In fact, Simmons has publicized his intentions in a role this season too. Recently, Simmons told reporters that he wants to be the best defender in the NBA and even mentioned off-handed that he’s “not a scorer.” That suggests that Simmons is comfortable with his current role with the team and that’s he’s bought into it being the team’s primary defender on defense and distributor with the ball in his hands on offense.

If Simmons has a defined role with the team heading into the playoffs, something that it didn’t appear he had in years past, it will only make this team that much more dangerous in a seven-game series.