Ben Simmons: Chances of debuting this season diminishing

The 76ers haven’t issued a firm timetable for Simmons’ return to game action
since the rookie fractured his right foot Sept. 30, but the No. 1 pick indicated
in January that he was aiming to play at some point after the All-Star break.
News in recent days seems to indicate that’s less likely of happening over the
final two months of the season, as coach Brett Brown told reporters Monday that
Simmons “is moving forward [in his recovery], but at a very slow pace.” Brown
further elaborated that Simmons would need to put in at least five five-on-five
full scrimmages before making his debut, something the coach didn’t envision
happening during the upcoming break. Based on that information, it would appear
safe to conclude that Simmons won’t be ready to play until March at the
earliest, and at that point, it may just be the 76ers’ best interest to hold him
out the rest of the way, especially with Philadelphia having limited practice
time available in the second half due to their game-heavy schedule. Despite the
growing possibility that he’ll be sidelined throughout 2016-17, Simmons remains
worth stashing in dynasty formats, as he’s viewed as the 76ers’ long-term option
at point guard, where his 6-foot-10, 250-pound frame and savvy passing skills
could make him a potential superstar at the position.