Fansided

Ben Simmons draws huge praise from David Fizdale

By Adam Strangis

CAMDEN, NJ - SEPTEMBER 27: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball during practice on September 27, 2017 at the Sixers Training Complex in Camden, New Jersey. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
CAMDEN, NJ - SEPTEMBER 27: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball during practice on September 27, 2017 at the Sixers Training Complex in Camden, New Jersey. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Sixers rookie and 2016 first overall pick Ben Simmons took the court Wednesday and sparkled. Even the opposing head coach loved what he saw.

The 2016 NBA Draft already feels like it was a while ago and fans outside of Philadelphia may have forgotten that Ben Simmons was the first pick. He missed all of 2016 with a broken bone in his foot. Memphis Grizzlies head coach David Fizdale had some high praise for Simmons before the game even tipped off. This quote came Wednesday morning courtesy of clutchpoints.com.

"“Any ideas? These guys are just getting taller and more talented and more skilled,” Grizzlies coach David Fizdale said Wednesday morning. “He’s one of those super freaks. But I think he’s hungry and he’s ready to show the league what he can do, and I’m rooting for the kid.”"

After Simmons racked up 6 points, 7 rebounds, 9 assists and even chipped in a block in just 22 minutes, Tisdale doubled down on his praise for the young player.

When the opposing coach is this excited for a young player, it’s time to take notice. Simmons is a former first round overall pick and he still has the expectations that come with that. The extremely early returns suggest he can be a smooth operator on the court. There are still questions about if he can score consistently. Playing with other high-end players should help open lanes and get him easier shots.

Next: Every NBA team's greatest draft pick of all time

The excitement in Philly is easy to understand right now. They drafted Markelle Fultz this past draft. They have one of the most unique and talented big men in the NBA with Joel Embiid. If Simmons can make an impact right away, the Sixers could be a playoff team this year. Simmons could be a big key as far as ball distribution and he has the height to chip in on the boards as well. Philadelphia may finally be starting to see the results of trusting the process.