James: Simmons "has all the tools"

LeBron James gave Ben Simmons high praise even though he wouldn't answer the question.

While speaking during Saturday's NBA Finals media availability, James, the Cleveland Cavaliers superstar, was reminded that Ben Simmons is represented by the Klutch Sports agency he helped to create. The 76ers are expected to select Simmons first overall in Thursday's NBA draft.

James was asked if he thought the Sixers would be crazy to not pick him first.

"Well, I think he's a great young talent," said James, whose Cavs face the Golden State Warriors Sunday in Game 7 of the finals in Oakland. "I think the way he displays [the talent] on the basketball court, we all notice. I think we all don't know just yet how great of a kid he is and how down to earth he is with the game of basketball and life in general.

"I had an opportunity to spend a lot of time over the last couple years with him and his family. They're just so very appreciative of the opportunity that they've been given as a family. Also, they give everything to their son. They want the best for him.

"And as a mentor to him and big brother to him, I also give him a lot of advice on what to expect when he makes his jump next week, how to handle it. But he also has to figure it out on his own as well, because everybody's path is different. I'm not a GM. I don't get paid by the Sixers, so I'm not going to answer that."

James added that he thinks Simmons "has all the tools." As a result, it's up to him to be a great player.

Follow and contact PMN 76ers beat writer Keith Pompey on Twitter @PompeyOnSixers and on Instagram at PompeyOnSixers