The Brooklyn Nets haven’t gotten off to the best start of the season, which isn’t much of a surprise.
Their roster doesn’t have that much talent, and their first-year coach is just taking his first steps with the organization.
However, there’s one player who could significantly raise their ceiling.
Ben Simmons has the talent to be one of the most disruptive two-way players in the league, yet his aggressiveness—or lack thereof—has always been a concerning issue, and more so lately.
That’s why Jordi Fernandez wants to watch him play more aggressively.
Following their loss to the Detroit Pistons, the coach talked about how he wants Simmons to shoot the ball more often (via Erik Slater):
“I want him to shoot more. My goal for him is 10 [shots per game]. He’s gotta find a way to get there. He hasn’t gotten there, but I know he can,” he said. “Those attempts need to go up… He’s more than capable.”
Jordi Fernandez on Ben Simmons attempting four shots in 25 minutes today:
"I want him to shoot more. My goal for him is 10 [shots per game]. He's gotta find a way to get there. He hasn't gotten there, but I know he can… Those attempts need to go up… He's more than capable." pic.twitter.com/CySkC5PU80
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) November 4, 2024
Simmons’ shooting woes have haunted him for his entire career, but more since that infamous game vs. the Atlanta Hawks when he was still a member of the Philadelphia 76ers.
He’s never been a great shooter per sé, but he’s a physical specimen with a strong frame and privileged athleticism who could dominate as a cutter or in the dunker spot.
His court vision and passing are great, and his pass-first mentality and love for setting his teammates up are great, but you can’t be on the court in the NBA and not even look at the rim.
Simmons is still young, and he could be one of the best players in the game, but he needs to gain his confidence back.
NEXT: Ben Simmons Reveals His Thoughts On Playing In The Olympics
