Philadelphia 76ers: Hiatus is just what Ben Simmons needed

By Derek Hryn | May 13, 2020

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - DECEMBER 15: Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers warms up before the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on December 15, 2019 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matteo Marchi/Getty Images) /

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Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

Health

Despite missing his entire first season because of an injured right foot, Simmons has never been plagued with injuries.

A superior athlete for his size, Simmons has appeared in 214 regular-season games – averaging a career 34.4 minutes and ranks in the NBA’s top 10 this season for minutes per game. The amount of rest he’s getting will only benefit him moving forward.

Ever since winning Rookie of the Year in what should’ve been his second campaign in 2018, one could argue that no current Sixers player has faced more scrutiny and criticism. Which is absolutely crazy, considering how far he’s brought this team in just a few seasons. They have gone 142-87 since 2017, and he has led the team in win shares twice. When he is healthy, he might be the team’s most valuable asset.

In this unprecedented time of reflection, Simmons has an opportunity to be light years ahead of the competition by the time basketball returns. It’s easy to harp on it. But the ball is (and has been) in his court. He just needs to realize that.

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