Ben Simmons Will Skip Olympics To Work On His Jumper

Sixers guard Ben Simmons will skip the olympics with Team Australia to prioritize individual development, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. Sounds selfish at first, but if fans insist on Simmons improving his game, this is the only way.

Take a step back now to make a giant leap later. A good sign for Sixers fans -- even if you want to see Ben Simmons traded this off-season. After all, can't move an asset that can't shoot a basketball in a sport that requires the ability to do exactly that.

At this point, Simmons isn't likely to make a real impact on Team Australia. He's a floor general, sure, yet he still somehow can't make a wide open jump shot. That's a franchise cornerstone on a five-year, $171 million deal can't hit a mid range jumper, so maybe it's a good idea to focus on that flaw rather than wasting his summer with Team Australia?

If you checked the replies under Woj's tweet, it's nothing but negativity. Everyone was laughing about whether or not Simmons' lack of participation would impact the Australian national team in any negative fashion -- myself included.

But honestly, Ben Simmons is killing the Philadelphia 76ers right now. He figures out that jumper? Suddenly 76ers GM Daryl Morey doesn't need to find Joel Embiid a new running mate. If not, well, Ben Simmons will likely be traded for pennies on the dollar, or become the Magic Johnson in Shanghai. Will his leave of absence make a difference? It can't hurt.