The Philadelphia 76ers find themselves undermanned with Ben Simmons suffering an injury. Though they are seemingly safe into the playoffs, head coach Brett Brown needs all hands on deck come the postseason wars. Making it even more complicated is that there is no telling if Simmons can return at all this NBA season.
Simmons has been ruled out indefinitely due to a back injury, ESPN reported. In a way, it could be good news. Most know how the Sixers have to deal with two players wanting to operate inside the paint. With Simmons out, Joel Embiid has the luxury of having his way inside. But looking beyond that, the Sixers will be needing healthy bodies to spell not only Embiid but also other starters.
Outside shooting remains a big problem for the Sixers, and Philly failed to address that at the NBA trade deadline. However, they can still skim the free-agent market and possibly work out some players. Among the notable names, they could consider include Lance Stephenson, Tyler Johnson, or even JR Smith. Signing any one of them does not have to be a long-term lease. They could get them for the remainder of the season or try them out via 10-day contract route. It is the same ploy that the Golden State Warriors are using, which has double intent.
Stephenson made it clear when he said he wanted to make an NBA return. He is coming off a stint in China and is presumably in shape. The same goes for Tyler Johnson who found himself without a team after the Phoenix Suns waived him earlier this month, ESPN reported. Smith, on the other hand, has been idle since he cut ties with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
As one can see, the Sixers do have options. Financial-wise, they don't have to shell out a ton of money to experiment on some free agents. All the names mentioned could help their campaign and address their shooting woes. A 10-day contract would suffice, and the option to sign them the rest of the way depends on how well they blend in with the team.
The Sixers do not have to commit to that player beyond this season. The only exception is if that particular cager performs well. The 76ers dodged a bullet with Embiid's shoulder injury not deemed serious. But looking ahead and if Philly wants to do well in the playoffs, adding bench support is something needed.
