NBA Mock Draft: Philadelphia 76ers Select Ben Simmons From LSU

NBA Mock Draft Pick #1 -- Ben Simmons, Small Forward, LSU

SB Nation's 76ers' blog Liberty Ballers explains the pick:

With the first overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, the Philadelphia 76ers select Ben Simmons, forward out of Louisiana State University. Simmons was the consensus pick in our draft war room and will surely be a hit with our fans, which is what we care about now. It helps that Simmons has transcendent talent, too, talent that when developed properly can continue to stretch the definition of the role of the power forward in the NBA, with Simmons's great size, skill, and elite court vision.

We believe concerns about Simmons' work ethic and shooting are overblown, and our team will work this offseason, including through this draft with the 24th and 26th selections in this round and through the trade market, to add complementary players and put Simmons and our other foundational players in position to succeed and turn the fortunes of our team around.

Ridiculous Upside analysis: Although the appeal of Brandon Ingram is definitely there, Ben Simmons seems like the obvious pick for the 76ers. Even without a consistent jumper, Simmons is such a dangerous offensive weapon due to him being a 6'10 forward with elite court vision and handles. That versatility as both a tremendous cutter and facilitator should allow Simmons to be an immediate focal point on a rebuilding 76ers squad.

1) Philadelphia 76ers: BEN SIMMONS

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