Realistic Expectations for Philadelphia 76ers Rookie Ben Simmons in 2016-17

The Philadelphia 76ers have a lot riding on Ben Simmons, the team’s prize for winning the 2016 NBA draft lottery. Uncertainty surrounding Joel Embiid’s durability and Jahlil Okafor’s defense makes Simmons’ development that much more crucial. 

But despite all the hope, hype and unparalleled college production, there were still some questions raised during his one-and-done year at LSU.

With the Tigers having failed to reach the NCAA tournament, lack of competitiveness suddenly emerged as a talking point and a potentially concerning character flaw. The fact he made one three-pointer all year and consistently passed up open jumpers was also unsettling.

Apparently, none of this alarmed Sixers’ management, which opted for yet another big man over Duke wing Brandon Ingram, the better on-paper fit based on Philadelphia’s roster. Now the big question is how Simmons will fit in a lineup alongside Embiid, Okafor, Nerlens Noel and Dario Saric—the team’s previous four lottery selections who all stand at least 6’10”. 

Team Fit 

One of the biggest storylines heading into camp will focus on Simmons’ projected usage. Though a big man, he’s no doubt the team’s most effective distributor.

Coach Brett Brown already talked about playing Simmons at the point, per NBA.com’s Scott Howard-Cooper. But will it be as a member of a two-guard backcourt, which he’d share with Gerald Henderson or Jerryd Bayless? That would mean the Sixers could have three bigs on the floor simultaneously, a strategy that contradicts the NBA’s small-ball movement.

Or will Simmons mirror Draymond Green in a playmaker 4 role? That lineup would likely see a Bayless-Henderson backcourt with Simmons up front, meaning fewer minutes to go around for Okafor, Embiid, Noel and/or Saric.

Chances are we’ll see Brown move Simmons all over during the next year. But if there is one thing we can be sure of, it’s that Simmons will have the ball in his hands often. 

Don’t expect him to throw any outlet passes off defensive rebounds. With an exceptional handle and vision, he’ll take those up the floor himself and look to get …

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