NBA: 3 storylines to watch in the Eastern Conference post-All-Star break

James Harden (Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports)
James Harden (Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports)
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Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia 76ers Ben Simmons (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

How does Ben Simmons fit with the Brooklyn Nets? 

Ben Simmons is an interesting figure in the league. The two-time all-star was once regarded as one of the league’s best young players. Ben Simmons now finds himself labeled as lazy as he’s still unable to hit a jumper even from mid-range. After sitting out all season, Simmons was the best the Nets were gonna get for Harden, considering the fact he was forcing his way to Philly.

Despite all of this, Simmons can still contribute to winning basketball with his playmaking abilities and elite defense. Last season, Simmons finished 2nd in DPOY voting, finishing behind Rudy Gobert who’s widely considered the league’s top defensive big. He paired that with roughly seven assists which is a career-low for him.

Alongside Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant, the new Brooklyn Nets big 3 looks to be a weird, yet potentially really good fit.