3 reasons why trading Kyrie Irving for Ben Simmons makes sense for the Brooklyn Nets

#2 Ben Simmons is a better player than Kyrie Irving on the defensive end

Philadelphia 76ers player Ben Simmons.

Kyrie Irving's talent on the offensive end is unquestionable, but his lackluster defense has been a cause of concern for the Brooklyn Nets for quite some time now. Irving is 29, and he is not going to improve on that end, and defense is something the Brooklyn Nets desperately lack. They have two offensive powerhouses in Kevin Durant and James Harden, and hence Ben Simmons' defensive prowess makes him a better fit alongside the two former MVPs.

Ben Simmons finished second in the NBA DPOY voting last season, losing out to Utah Jazz's Rudy Gobert. He was phenomenal on the defensive side of the court, guarding players 1-5 with ease. Simmons led the NBA in steals in the 2019-20 season with 2.1 steals per game, and has been a part of the NBA All-Defensive team twice in his career already.

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#1 Ben Simmons might seamlessly fit in a point forward role at the Brooklyn Nets

Philadelphia 76ers #25 Ben Simmons shoot during a game.

Ben Simmons has traditionally been played in a point guard role for the Philadephia 76ers so far. But playing him at the 1 has often forced him to exercise his worst trait, which is shooting in games. Simmons' game struggles when he is asked to shoot, and his inability to make plays on the half court in crunch moments is another reason why the point guard position might not be the best for him.

The Brooklyn Nets already have a point guard in James Harden, and if a Irving-Simmons deal ends up going through, head coach Steve Nash will be better off using the Australian international in a point forward role. Simmons could slot alongside Kevin Durant in one of the forward roles and alternate playmaking duties with Harden.

This way, the Brooklyn Nets will be taking the pressure off Ben Simmons, and he might end up excelling in this limited playmaking role. He could also improve on this aspect with time, giving the Brooklyn Nets a solid starting point guard in a few years' time, once James Harden has to be replaced.