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

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3. The starting five

The absence of Ben Simmons will leave a gaping hole in the Sixers’ starting five. Simmons has struggled at times since arriving in Orlando, but he remains integral to Philadelphia’s success on both ends of the floor. Replacing him is no simple task.

My expectation is Al Horford will resume his post as the starting power forward. Some will clamor for a more perimeter-oriented replacement — Matisse Thybulle or Furkan Korkmaz — but at the end of the day, Horford may just be the right choice.

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Despite his struggles this season, Horford remains a mostly capable NBA player. He’s old, he has lost a step defensively, and he’s essentially a fish out of water in Philadelphia’s offense, but deep down, he’s still Al Horford.

The Sixers are paying Horford $109 million, and that alone may guarantee him the starting spot. But from a basketball perspective, he’s also another playmaking vessel in an offense devoid of true point guards. Shake Milton is fine, but he’s not built to be the only initiator on the floor. Josh Richardson is bound to assume more ball-handling duties, but this is a prime opportunity for Philadelphia to lean into Horford’s playmaking chops.

Since arriving in Orlando, the Sixers have used Simmons is entirely reimagined ways — including more work from the elbows and in the pick-and-roll. That’s an environment in which Horford thrives. Letting him get more touches on offense — touches that were previously hoarded by Simmons — could elevate his play dramatically.

Call me a fool. And I’m dead certain Horford will make this look foolish. But maybe — just maybe — this is Horford’s chance to reassert himself.

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

By Christopher Kline | Aug 7, 2020

3. The starting five