2016 NBA Power Rankings: New York Knicks Additions Ignite New Hype
team. 93. . . . Philadelphia 76ers. 30
No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons brought a sliver of hope to the Philadelphia 76ers, but the proud basketball city will endure another setback in its climb back to relevance.
According to NBA.com, the one-and-done LSU star underwent successful surgery for a Jones fracture in his right foot. Despite head coach Brent Brown’s optimistic prognosis, per Philly.com reporter Keith Pompey, Simmons’ rookie year could be in doubt.
The lengthy recovery period leaves this team with the same roster plus Joel Embiid, who looked impressive during the preseason but hasn’t logged regular-season minutes on the court. Don’t forget, Nerlens Noel will also miss three to five weeks due to surgery on his left knee, per Pompey.
Will the future for the Sixers ever bring some sunshine for more than a month?
Between all the injuries, the unknowns and lack of talent, it’s difficult to see this roster winning more than 20 games. Of course, a few trades could boost their win total, but it looks pretty grim for the Sixers before the season starts.
Fantasy Tip: As a healthy big body, Embiid could provide double-doubles on any given night. His defensive prowess pushes his draft value higher than the average center in head-to-head category leagues. Furthermore, he’s a solid free-throw shooter. He converted 27-of-33 from the charity stripe during the preseason.