Simmons returns to 76ers’ lineup vs. Bucks

MILWAUKEE — Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons, who missed one game against Detroit with back tightness, will play Wednesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks, the team announced.

Simmons will start and will not have any minute restrictions in the Eastern Conference matchup.

The reigning rookie of the year sustained the injury during the 76ers’ Saturday game against the Orlando Magic in the first quarter and did not return. Simmons did not practice on Monday and Philadelphia lost to the Pistons 133-132 in overtime without him on Tuesday night.

Simmons said he felt good during warm-ups Wednesday and his back didn’t bother him.

“He had a good warm-up,” coach Brett Brown said before an official decision had been made on Simmons’ status. “He came out of the warm-ups feeling good. What we saw out of warm-ups was positive.”

Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer called Simmons a “very unique player” who presents a matchup challenge.

Through the first three games of the season, Simmons is averaging 12 points, 9.3 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game. He opened the regular season with a triple-double performance against the Chicago Bulls.