Bill Simmons Names Biggest Flopper In NBA
Bill Simmons Names Biggest Flopper In NBA
Bill Simmons has recently sparked debate by labeling New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson as the “preeminent flopper” in the NBA. The Ringer podcast host didn’t hold back in his assessment, claiming Brunson has mastered the art of drawing fouls through exaggerated reactions.
Simmons specifically pointed out various techniques in Brunson’s arsenal, including flopping on picks, reacting to contact on drives, and drawing charges.
“I had a Brunson thing for you.. He’s becoming the pre-eminent flopper in the NBA. I have to put him… It’s just a bunch of things, he’s doing on offense and defense. Kudos him because it’s working,” Simmons said.
“But I think Hart is getting older, maybe his best flopping days were in the 2018-19 range. Trae Young was there for a second but I think some of the rule-changes have gone over the top of his head a little too much.
“Brunson is top of the game. He’s bluffing on picks, coming off screens when someone bumps into him on a drive. He’s flopping for charges. I think he’s the complete package, it’s some of the best flopping I’ve ever seen.”
This criticism comes despite Brunson averaging 6.8 free throw attempts per game, which adds approximately 5.6 points to his overall scoring average of 26.0 points per game.
Free throw generation remains a contentious topic in NBA discussions. Many analysts consider it a legitimate skill, while fans often find excessive foul-baiting frustrating to watch. Brunson’s playing style naturally invites contact as he frequently drives into the paint against larger defenders.
Simmons suggested that Brunson has assumed the “flopper” mantle from previous title-holders including:
- James Harden (who Simmons notes is “getting older”)
- Trae Young (who briefly held the title)
When comparing free throw statistics, it’s worth noting that Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander actually averages more trips to the line. SGA ranks second league-wide in free throw attempts and leads in free throws made at 8.0 per game.
This comparison raises questions about Simmons’ assessment, as the 6’6″ Gilgeous-Alexander gets to the line more frequently than the 6’1″ Brunson. Some might argue this makes Simmons’ criticism of Brunson particularly pointed or potentially inconsistent.
The Knicks have benefited from Brunson’s play regardless of style, compiling a 37-20 record this season. However, free throw-dependent scoring approaches have historically proven less reliable during playoff basketball when officiating often becomes more permissive.
NBA players continuously adapt to rule changes regarding fouls, finding new ways to create advantages within the current framework. As long as drawing fouls remains effective, players will continue developing techniques to exploit contact for free throws.
For Brunson and the Knicks, the real test will come in the postseason. Championship contenders typically need scoring strategies that remain effective when referees swallow their whistles in crucial moments. Whether Brunson’s style will translate to playoff success remains to be seen.
The debate around flopping and foul-baiting continues to divide NBA fans and analysts alike. While some view it as clever gamesmanship, others consider it contrary to the spirit of competition. Regardless of perspective, Brunson’s ability to generate free throws represents a valuable skill in today’s NBA.
Jennifer Withers Hoey is a former Business Development Manager who transitioned to writing about sports. With valuable connections all over the West Coast, she has used those contacts to break some of the most interesting stories pertaining to the Portland Trail Blazers, Oregon Ducks, LA Lakers, LA Clippers, Seattle Supersonics (RIP), and more.
