Ben Simmons out indefinitely with left kneecap dislocation

The Philadelphia 76ers’ worst nightmare becomes a reality

Fans in the City of Brotherly Love watched Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons leave the court on Wednesday evening against the Washington Wizards with a knee injury and never return. After the contest, reports indicated that Simmon’s MRI results came back negative, causing the team and its fans to breathe a sigh of relief. Well, it’s time to panic Sixers fans.

According to Marc Stein of the New York Times, Simmons will be out indefinitely after suffering what was determined to be a subluxation of the left patella. Translation: Simmons is dealing with a dislocated left knee cap.

Simmons considering treatment options

Adrian Wojnarowski followed up Stein’s report by saying that Simmons is currently considering treatment options, where a specific timetable for return will be determined. However, there is fear about how long he’ll be out. Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer tweeted out that former Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum suffered a similar injury back in January 2008, where the diagnosis was that he’d be out “at least eight weeks.” Bynum eventually underwent arthroscopic surgery on his kneecap that May, which sidelined him for the remainder of the Lakers’ season.

Simmons’ injury happened in the third quarter against the Wizards after going for a rebound. After passing the ball to center Al Horford, Simmons grabbed his left knee and retreated to the locker room.

Unfortunately, this isn’t the first injury that Simmons has dealt with this season. Prior to the league shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic back in March, Simmons dealt with back and nerve issues, which would have put his postseason in doubt. He’s since recovered prior to reporting to the Walt Disney World bubble.

This season, Simmons has averaged 16.4 points, 8.0 assists and 7.8 rebounds while shooting 58% from the field.

Philadelphia’s success hinges on Simmons being on the court. If he’s not, the 76ers will have serious trouble once the playoffs begin in the coming days.