The Tide’s Ebb
It began with the news so many feared in Philadelphia, Ben Simmons had fractured his foot and would need surgery. As preseason began, the team had to absorb the disappointment of knowing Ben Simmons would not be able to debut for the Philadelphia 76ers for three months.
Ah, but no matter. You see, the over-signing of Bryan Colangelo to the one role resulted in Jerryd Bayless, Sergio Rodriguez, T.J. McConnell, Anthony Barber and the eventual heir apparent, Ben Simmons, standing in line for the point guard position for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Much like the perception of a logjam at the center position, the competition for point guard was only on paper. As preseason began, fans learned that Cat Barber would sit pending recovery to his right wrist injury.
Cat Barber suffered right hand/wrist injury in practice yesterday. Did not travel with the team. Nik Stauskas expected to see min at PG.
— Jessica Camerato (@JessicaCamerato) October 4, 2016
Alongside him on the bench is Jerryd Bayless, whose left wrist is the source of much consternation with the team early in the preseason. Reported as “soreness”, results of a diagnostic MRI indicate complications that may very well impact his ability to play when the season starts.
Jerryd Bayless (sore left wrist) acknowledges the possibility that he might not be ready for the regular season. #sixers
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) October 6, 2016
For now, there are just two healthy point guards for the Philadelphia 76ers: T.J. McConnell and Sergio Rodriguez. In fact, the situation at point guard, once perceived to be fully addressed and robust for the team, appears to be lacking once more. Not only lacking in healthy players, but in the secrecy of players health – a matter of huge objection during Sam Hinkie’s tenure with the club.