Ben Simmons has drawn attention for his size, playmaking ability, and impact on the pace of New York Knicks offenses. Yet his 3 point attempts remain a focal point of debate among analysts and fans who track shot selection and spacing.
This article examines how Simmons generates and takes 3 point attempts, the efficiency behind those shots, and the tactical role they play in modern NBA schemes.
| Season | Team | 3PA per Game | 3P% | 3PA Rank in League |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016-17 | Philadelphia 76ers | 3.8 | .333 | 130 |
| 2017-18 | Philadelphia 76ers | 5.6 | .303 | 95 |
| 2018-19 | Philadelphia 76ers | 6.3 | .351 | 78 |
| 2019-20 | Philadelphia 76ers | 6.6 | .370 | 58 |
| 2020-21 | Philadelphia 76ers | 6.0 | .355 | 70 |
| 2021-22 | Brooklyn Nets | 6.7 | .344 | 65 |
| 2022-23 | Brooklyn Nets | 7.2 | .292 | 60 |
| 2023-24 | New York Knicks | 6.4 | .390 | 45 |
How Simmons Generates 3 Point Opportunities
Simmons initiates offense as a point guard, using drives, cuts, and screens to pull defenders into the paint. This gravitational effect opens cross‑floor looks for shooters, increasing catch and shoot 3 point attempts without him needing to spot up.
Coaches design sets that use his passing window to free perimeter players, which in turn creates more 3 point attempts for Simmons when he relocates to the perimeter or flares from the wing.
Volume and Shot Profile Trends
Early in his career, Simmons took relatively few 3 point attempts, prioritizing contact drives and paint scoring. Over time he expanded his range, raising his season 3 point attempts into the six to eight per game range in the mid‑2020s.
Shot profile analysis shows a mix of catch and shoot opportunities and a smaller share of pull‑up 3 point attempts, with most volume coming when he moves without the ball rather than isolating off the dribble.
Impact on Team Offensive Structure
When Simmons occupies the 3 point area, spacing opens for downhill drivers and rim runners on his team. His ability to pass out of double teams further multiplies the effective value of these looks.
Defenses must decide whether to sag off and protect the rim or respect the perimeter shot, and his 3 point attempts often dictate that defensive choice, shaping overall scheme execution.
Efficiency and Expected Metrics
While Simmons converts a respectable share of 3 point shots in high quality catch and shoot situations, his overall efficiency on lower quality attempts has been inconsistent.
Advanced metrics suggest that selective aggression in creating higher quality 3 point opportunities could improve his scoring value without undermining his primary playmaking strengths.
Current Role and Projected Development
As the Knicks build around a mix of floor spacers and drive specialists, Simmons is expected to maintain or modestly increase his 3 point attempts while preserving elite playmaking and defensive impact.
- Focus on high quality catch and shoot opportunities to improve efficiency.
- Leverage off ball movement to generate open 3 point looks without forcing low percentage pull ups.
- Balance scoring initiatives with playmaking to remain central in New York's offense.
- Use training to expand reliable 3 point range and reduce decision hesitation.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many 3 point attempts does Ben Simmons typically take in a game?
Ben Simmons averages roughly six to eight 3 point attempts per game across his recent seasons with Brooklyn and New York, reflecting a moderate volume role that balances playmaking and perimeter shooting.
Are most of Simmons's 3 point attempts catch and shoot or pull up?
The majority of his 3 point attempts come from catch and shoot looks after relocations and cuts, with far fewer pull up attempts due to his primary playmaking responsibilities.
How do his 3 point attempts affect defensive schemes against the Knicks?
Defensive coordinators often adjust help rotations and hedge selections based on Simmons's positioning, which can open driving lanes for teammates even when he does not finish at the rim.
Is there a trend of increasing or decreasing 3 point volume over his career?
Simmons generally shows an upward trend in 3 point attempts from his early Sixers years through his time with Brooklyn and New York, with slight fluctuations based on coaching systems and role changes.