Sixers’ Ben Simmons will play true point guard upon return

By Josh Liddick, Sports Talk Philly Staff

Well, a decision has been made regarding Philadelphia 76ers number one overall draft pick, Ben Simmons and where he will play on the court.

Simmons has been sidelined with a broken foot since the preseason, and the anticipation surrounding his return to the floor has been greatly influencing the Sixers fans and media in the past couple months.

Coach Brett Brown announced today in an interview, which was then reported on Comcast Sportsnet following the Flyers game, that Simmons will play true point guard, rather than point forward when he returns to make his NBA debut some time in January.

The 6' 10" phenom will tower over defenders as he leads the team inbounding the ball and whatnot, and could prove his worth as he is touted to be one of the league's brightest passers.

CSN's Jessica Camerato had originally reported it earlier on in the day, but the news broke tonight.

Brown envisions Simmons becoming Sixers point guard, true PG not just point-forward.

— Jessica Camerato (@JCameratoCSN) December 1, 2016

Brown told reporters, "My intention is to give him the ball and let him be the point guard." When asked to elaborate, he said, "That's the plan. That doesn't just happen. It takes a little bit of time to introduce him."

It will be interesting to see how Simmons adjusts to the role, especially going into January not having any experience playing with his teammates. Simmons also hasn't had a chance to go one-on-one with any NBA player, so that will be something to keep in mind.

The decision allows the Sixers some more flexibility with the front court situation, as it puts Simmons out of the equation for the time being. It also will be intriguing to see what Brown plans to do with the other guards such as Jarryd Bayless and Sergio Rodriguez going forward.

Photo: si.com