Sixers podcast: Ben Simmons makes his uncomfortable return

As expected, more Sixers drama unfolded this week in the Ben Simmons saga. We begin the podcast talking about the 76ers’ All-Star guard, who a few weeks ago had his bags packed, but now has shown interest in being with the team. We discuss how that first practice went with his teammates and how Doc Rivers will most likely handle Simmons from here out. Will the Sixers coach limit Simmons’ minutes? Will Rivers change Simmons’ role in the lineups?

We pivot to the comments made by several of Simmons’ key teammates. We explore the subtle sarcasm in statements given by Tobias Harris and Danny Green. We also share our thoughts related to Doc Rivers’ feelings when it comes to Ben Simmons.

After the hold-out discussion, we shift gears and analyze the final preseason game. Although the 76ers lost to the Detroit Pistons, there were plenty of performances to break down. From Andre Drummond to Paul Reed, and Isaiah Joe to Tyrese Maxey, we spotlight some positive notes despite the exhausting Ben Simmons coverage.

The next podcast topic focuses on the health of Tobias Harris’s knee. After missing several preseason games, we discuss the significance of Harris as the number two option. If he should miss time because of a lingering injury, we spell out how this could spell trouble for the 76ers.

The next topic brings up Allen Iverson and his social media support for Ben Simmons. We look into possible motives for being an advocate for Ben Simmons in the rough media landscape.

The social media question of the week allowed Sixer Sense followers to chime in on where Philly would land in the standings at the end of the year should Ben Simmons not return. The results might surprise you.

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