1. Ben Simmons
Duh.
Simmons was previously expected to miss the remainder of the regular season and, potentially, a significant chunk of the postseason. The Sixers need Ben Simmons like a fish needs water, and no matter how vocal his detractors are, it’s impossible to find a true positive in his extended absence.
While he won’t return at 100 percent capacity, Simmons is expected to play when the season resumes in Orlando. He should eventually work his way back to a full workload, ideally in time for the Sixers’ first-round matchup.
At 6-foot-10, Simmons is one of basketball’s most impressive athletes. It was clear his back injury before the season’s suspension was a source of immense pain, and it’s difficult to perform up to one’s athletic peak with a bum back. No one on the roster needed a three-month break more than Simmons.
As far as the team goes, it’s Simmons’ extended recovery time that could make Philadelphia atypical beneficiaries of the hiatus. While some teams have lost key pieces, the Sixers recovered one. It may take time for Simmons to get rolling, but having him in the rotation is enough to spark optimism about Philadelphia’s immediate future.