The Philadelphia 76ers have to first answer who starts in Al Horford’s place after the move of bringing the 5-time All-Star off the bench, but now they will have to figure out who starts in place of another All-Star.
After originally being listed as questionable, Ben Simmons is now officially out for Thursday’s matchup with the Brooklyn Nets due to lower back tightness. The 2-time All-Star is averaging 16.9 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.9 rebounds and the Sixers will miss his defense against Nets guard Spencer Dinwiddie.
Simmons originally reported some discomfort at Wednesday’s practice and he received some treatment after. He woke up on Thursday still feeling the discomfort and he was not able to go for this one.
He reported some discomfort at yesterday’s practice and received treatment following. He woke up this morning and was still experiencing some discomfort and received treatment today at the facility. https://t.co/NV3pJgpduI
— Ky Carlin (@Ky_Carlin) February 20, 2020
This will be the third game of the season that Simmons will miss. The question of who replaces him in the starting lineup comes down to a few options. Possibly Shake Milton who started in place of Josh Richardson when he was injured or maybe even Raul Neto will get a look. There are a few options that coach Brett Brown will turn to.
The Sixers and the Nets tipoff at 8:00 p.m. EST from the Wells Fargo Center. [lawrence-related id=26131,26119,26110]