The Philadelphia 76’ers summer league season came to an end over the past weekend with all eyes on #1 draft pick Ben Simmons out of LSU. This gave the brass the opportunity to see talent play at, or near NBA caliber level and see what the future holds. The two week stint demonstrated that yes, Ben Simmons can play and will be a force on the court immediately, and for years to come.
Philadelphia had a record of 3-4 with the victories coming against NBA D-Select, Utah Jazz and the Miami Heat. The losses came at the hands the Los Angeles Lakers, the Brooklyn Nets, the Golden State Warriors, and Chicago. Ben Simmons stats were solid in the four games he played. He ranked second in scoring average with 12.2 pts and first in rebound average of 7.8. He logged over thirty minutes a game and made his presence felt. Simmons was also second on the team in assists and steals. In Simmons last game, a 74-66 victory over the Miami Heat, he manufactured 15 points (5-15 fg, 5-7 ft), 10 rebounds, six assists, two steals, and one block. Also of note that night was his eagerness and desire to return to action, after having been held out of the Sixers’ two previous games due to previously scheduled rest. Overall, a strong campaign for Simmons who will feel the burden to be the franchise moniker for a team that ended the season at 10-72, worst in the NBA.
The leading scorer for the summer team was Christian Wood, who played three games, averaging 13.0 points. He was solid and contributed nicely. So nicely, that he was immediately signed to a two-year deal with the Charlotte Hornets. It’s certainly a disappointment, but the 76ers need a ton of work in all positions to begin to climb from the cellar of the NBA.
Timothe Luwawu was the 24th pick in the 2016 draft by the Philadelphia 76ers and played very well in the two week stint. He is regarded as a versatile defender that can play solid in the paint. Many experts believe he would be better served playing in Europe for a year or two. He averaged 8.2 points per game with a 36% shooting percentage and logged almost 24 minutes per game. His best performance out on the court was in a loss to Dallas on July 13, where he netted 15 points and shot just under 50% from the floor. The potential to join the club in the near future was definitely there.
Rounding out the rest of the team it will be very difficult to see (except for Simmons and possibly Luwawu) who will be on the squad come October. The 76ers need a major upgrade in almost every position to become competitive again. There is always the possibility that one or two could be pulled if injuries become an issue during the season.
In reality, the summer league was to showcase Ben Simmons and get him acclimated to the NBA style of play and he for the most part did not disappoint management. While issues remain with regards to his toughness and willingness to be dishing the ball out to teammates, that will come with time and repetition.
