Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons (10) reacts to a call against the Miami Heat during the second half at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images Rich Storry-Imagn Images

Clippers Legend Offers Heartfelt Advice for Struggling Ben Simmons

Originally posted on Los Angeles Clippers on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated 10/15/24

Not too long ago, Ben Simmons was one of the best point guards in the NBA. After being hampered by availability and injury issues, the former All-Star is struggling to become a key role player in the league. Former Clippers fan favorite Lou Williams had some words of encouragement for him.

During an episode of FanDuel's Run It Back show, Lou Williams gave Ben Simmons some heartfelt advice on becoming an important role player in the NBA.

"We would love for Ben Simmons to be a great role player," Williams said. "That would be a great start to a great comeback story. He's closer to a role player than an All-Star. The game changes. That opportunity for you to be an All-Star is a small window for you to be considered that. That window is closed for Ben Simmons."

#BenSimmons is closer to a #roleplayer or an #allstar?

"He's young enough to still somehow, someway fix this." - @ChandlerParsons

"Don't put expectations on yourself, just go out and compete." - @TeamLou23 #RunItBack #NBA #basketball #BrooklynNets https://t.co/4DBXs9mR6h pic.twitter.com/1Y2837Qs0C
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) October 14, 2024

The biggest piece of advice Lou Williams can give to Ben Simmons is to stop putting so many expectations on himself. Don't expect to become an All-Star again, don't expect to shut up the critics, just go out there and be the best he can be.

"So now, for him to have all of these health issues, have all these reputation issues, we just want you to be back on the floor, be healthy, and be one of those guys on the team to the effect of winning a basketball game," Williams said. "Other than that, don't put on yourself, just go out and compete the best you can and be a great role player."

After playing only 15 games last season, Ben Simmons is in a moment of put up or shut up thi sseason.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Clippers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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