First overall pick Ben Simmons underwent successful surgery to repair an acute Jones fracture on the fifth metatarsal of his right foot, the Sixers announced today in a press release. Word of Simmons’ foot injury first broke on Friday, with reports over the weekend suggesting the forward was likely to undergo surgery.
Within their announcement today, the Sixers didn’t provide a timetable for Simmons’ recovery and potential return, suggesting that additional information will “be provided as available and when appropriate.” However, reports have indicated that the 20-year-old will likely be sidelined for three months, and there are whispers that agent Rich Paul may want his client to sit out the entire season to be safe.
Meanwhile, another young prospect with a foot injury, Thunder guard Cameron Payne, won’t go under the knife. According to Royce Young of ESPN.com (Twitter links), the Thunder will have Payne sit for six to eight weeks before being re-evaluated. though surgery could still be an option if the bone isn’t healing properly.
Payne underwent Jones fracture surgery to his right foot in July but recovered quickly and was cleared to practice when training camp opened. He went through full contact during Oklahoma City’s first two days of practice before suffering another foot fracture during a scrimmage last Tuesday.