NBA: Top pick Ben Simmons could make season debut after All-Star game—report
Ben Simmons is expected to begin his rookie campaign sometime in February. AP file photo
After floundering at the bottom of the NBA standings early in the season, The Philadelphia 76ers have been playing well as of late, winning seven of their last 10 games.
Things are looking even brighter in the “City of Brotherly Love”, as the team’s number one pick from last year’s draft, Ben Simmons, could make his much-anticipated debut after the All-Star break in February, according to ESPN.
The 20-year-old Aussie was expected to star alongside another prized rookie Joel Embiid this season, but unfortunately broke the fifth metatarsal bone of his right foot during training camp.
He was ruled out indefinitely following surgery, but after moths of rehab, his foot has completely healed.
The former Louisiana State University (LSU) Tiger has been more visible in the Sixers sidelines in recent games, and even participated in 5-on-5 drills for the first time last week.
Much like the team’s cautionary approach with the recently-healthy Embiid, the Sixers franchise is expected to give the same delicate treatment to Simmons, and possibly limit his playing time.
Shortly after his injury, Simmons’ agent Rich Paul said he would prefer if his client would sit out the rest of the season and begin his rookie campaign next year.
NBA: Simmons’ agent wants him to sit out rest of 2016—report
However, it still remains unclear which path the prized recruit would take, but his team certainly can use his services if they are to make a strong playoff push.
In his lone collegiate season at LSU, Simmons impressed with averages of 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists. Khristian Ibarrola
