The Philadelphia 76ers hosted the super-talented, versatile Ben Simmons for a workout on Tuesday, and there are indications from both sides that they’ll select Simmons with the first overall pick of the draft on Thursday night.
ESPN’s Marc Stein reports that the team’s decision to host him speaks volumes, and that Simmons’ agent wouldn’t have let his client do a private workout for the team without some sort of commitment to the small forward.
Sources say Ben Simmons' workout for the Sixers today is the strongest indication yet Philadelphia has promised to select Simmons at No. 1.
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) June 21, 2016
There is little chance, sources say, Simmons' agent Rich Paul would have granted Philly permission to hold a workout without such a promise.
— Marc Stein (@ESPNSteinLine) June 21, 2016
Simmons also took to Instagram and posted this photo of his workout for the team.
The caption, “Trust the process,” was a clear reference to former general manager Sam Hinkie’s slogan.
Anyway, this bit of news certainly makes sense, as there’s a lot of pressure on new GM Bryan Colangelo right out of the gate, and Simmons is the best player available in the draft, many believe. We’ll see how it all plays out on Thursday night.
