Sixers vs. Magic: 3 things to watch for in Ben Simmons’ absence

The Sixers will need to adjust on the fly in the absence of Ben Simmons.

The Philadelphia 76ers are without Ben Simmons for an indefinite period of time after he dislocated his kneecap in Wednesday’s win over Washington. In the meantime, the Sixers must adjust on the fly — and that includes a (new) new-look starting five.

The Orlando Magic will present Philadelphia its first challenge in lieu of Simmons. The Magic are shorthanded themselves — Aaron Gordon, Jonathan Isaac, and Michael Carter-Williams are all out — but Orlando has a lot to fight for. The Nets are only half a game ahead of Orlando in the standings.

So far, the Sixers’ tenure in Disney World has been eventful. On paper, they were a couple defensive stops shy of 3-0. On the other hand, there’s a not-too-alternative timeline in which the Sixers are 0-3. And, at 2-1, half the fanbase has already drafted Brett Brown’s letter of resignation.

This should be a difficult test for the Sixers — especially if Washington and San Antonio were down-to-the-wire contests. The Magic have some size and have given Philadelphia issues in the past. Nikola Vucevic will stretch Joel Embiid out to the perimeter, and Markelle Fultz may have a thirst for vengeance.

Here’s what everyone should watch for in the Sixers’ first game without Simmons.