Kevin Durant Says Ben Simmons Has Leg Up on Other Rookies

Kevin Durant joined The Ringer's Bill Simmons for another episode of the latter's podcast and Philadelphia 76ers rookie Ben Simmons came up.

Before the topic of this year's rookie class was broached, KD and Simmons go over the Kyrie Irving-Isaiah Thomas trade (KD believes anything Woj tweets), KD's impressive social media presence, how big of an impact the James Harden trade had on his career, the Mayweather-McGregor fight, some ghost talk, some sneaker talk, and much more.

A reader submitted question asked KD what rookie he is most looking forward to facing this season.

Ben Simmons.

"I know he ain't play no games but you been around the league for a year you know how it is. You got a leg up on the rookies. I'm looking forward to playing against him."

Ben himself seems to have echoed that sentiment and has said as much to Philly fans about the work he's put in over the past year and the improvements he's made to his game.

Lonzo Ball is currently the favorite to win Rookie of the Year at +225, followed by Dennis Smith at +300, then Simmons at +500. Jayson Tatum is also at +500 and Simmons' teammate Markelle Fultz comes in next at +800. All odds via Bovada.