The friction between Ben Simmons and Philadelphia 76ers is here to stay with their fallout since the exit against Atlanta Hawks in the Eastern Conference semi-finals yet to be resolved. The former rookie of the year was handed a one-game suspension after not playing by the rules in the first training session since his return.
After having missed the team’s season opener against the Pelicans, Simmons is eligible to play in their next contest against conference rivals Brooklyn Nets. The two sides were fighting for the top seed last season, a battle in which the 76ers triumphed.
However, ahead of the game, Simmons has complained of stiff back and mental health issues due to which he cannot participate in the game. He was cleared by the team doctor for an individual workout, but chose to skip it and this has left the franchise livid. Howard Eskin of Sports Radio 94 WIP said:
“According to Sources, belief by #Sixers Ben Simmons is faking injury and mental illness. He came in 2day and said he had back stiffness and mentally not ready to play. Mental illness is serious issue and team is livid Simmons went down that road. Team plans to fine him every game”
Ben Simmons reportedly out for an “indefinite” period of time
Sources claim that Simmons is not mentally ready to play and will not be seen on the court for a while now. With the team intending to fine him for every game that the Australian misses and the player’s reluctance to represent the franchise ever again, a solution might not be far away.
“76ers All-Star Ben Simmons is currently not mentally ready to play for the team and was receiving treatment on his back today due to ramp up process. He will miss Friday’s home opener vs. Nets and is not expected to play for an undetermined period of time” Shams Charania of The Athletic reported
76ers opened their season with a convincing win over the Pelicans and they will face the mighty Nets in their home season opener.
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