Steve Lipman thinks not.
This guy is still quite the anchor
But Steve argues that Ben Simmons has not evolved enough to complement Joel. The Sixers need an elite perimeter threat who can create shots at will, like Harden.
Do they`I think a lot depends on how Shake and Thyrese Maxey develop during the season. If both come on, the Sixers will have two perimeter threats who can create and pass. Neither is as good offensively as Harden. But either can play that role on the team as needed.
And what about Ben? It is true that he is still not a factor from outside. But if you watch the flow of play, Ben contributes in many other ways that a guy like Harden or any other of the flashy scoring guards would not. I will take Ben as he is, and cross my fingers that he starts shooting a bit.
So I will go out on a limb and say the Sixers ARE good enough and will get better as this weird season goes forward. Will they win it all this year? The could, depending on how well they shoot from the outside. If Harris, Seth, Danny, Joel, Shake, Matisse, Thyrese, and more are hitting they can score in bunches AND play ferocious defense.
And btw, my analysis is colored by my desire to see how this team develops as a unit. Go for it!