James on Simmons’ matchup problem: ‘Same one I bring’

By Brandon Apter, Sports Talk Philly editor

It's not a secret that LeBron James has some love for Sixers rookie Ben Simmons. The two were offseason workout buddies and James has been calling Simmons 'young King' since his entry into the league and continued that trend last night on Instagram. While Simmons doesn't have the mid-range or three-point shooting ability that James does, many believe that will come in time. Still, without much of a shooting game at all, Simmons has managed to put together some phenomenal numbers and is averaging nearly 17 points per game…without a jump shot. 

After Thursday night's victory in Cleveland, a reporter asked LeBron James what kind of matchup problem Ben Simmons causes in the backcourt. The answer? Same as him.

LeBron James was asked what kind of a matchup problem Ben Simmons brings: "Same one I bring. Power, speed, quickness, size, court awareness. Same one I bring."

(📽️ https://t.co/bZU04ch4NS) pic.twitter.com/MBBTPvfVCO

— Andrew Porter (@And_Porter) March 2, 2018

 'Young King' Ben Simmons finished with 18 points, nine rebounds and eight assists on Thursday, also tallying a block and two steals while shooting 8-for-14 from the floor. James, on the other hand, had 30 points, but also had nine rebounds and eight assists like Simmons.