Fansided

5 reasons Ben Simmons shouldn’t be the NBA Draft’s first pick

By Rucker Haringey

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Jan 9, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Brandon Ingram (14) reacts after hitting a three point shot in their game against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2016; Durham, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Brandon Ingram (14) reacts after hitting a three point shot in their game against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Brandon Ingram

The only way you can reasonably argue that Simmons doesn’t deserve to go No. 1 overall is to provide a reasonable alternative. Duke wing Brandon Ingram has the talent and upside to replace Simmons as the draft’s top prospect.

The Blue Devil freshman isn’t anywhere near a finished product at this point in his career, but he oozes talent and athleticism. His ability to stretch defenses with his sweet jumper and also to put the ball on the floor reminds many fans of Kevin Durant. He might not be quite that good, but the comparison is at the very least understandable.

Ingram isn’t as ready for the league as Simmons is, but his long-term upside could trump that of the talented Australian. It’s not hard to imagine a developmental scenario where Ingram becomes the leading scorer on a very good team. The same cannot be said for Simmons.

Don’t forget that Ingram is also an entire year younger than Simmons. When you’re talking about small differences in player evaluations, that’s a huge factor to consider. Who wouldn’t bet on Simmons to be a better player in one year than Simmons was for LSU this season? If you think that’s the case, you have to take the Duke prospect with the first overall pick.

Next: 2. He can't shoot

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