Sports
Philadelphia 76ers Make Surprising Decision on Ben Simmons Despite Initial Strong Stance
It finally looks like not everything between the Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons will turn out to be ugly. The saga that has unraveled after the team’s disappointing exit in the playoffs last season seems to have dragged on for too long. And by the looks of it, will go on for even longer. However, Philly seems to have figured out a way to deal with the situation more delicately. Ever since Simmons explained that he isn’t fit mentally and physically to get back and play, the 76ers couldn’t be more supportive.
Philadelphia 76ers give up on fining Ben Simmons
The situation between the Sixers and Simmons only gets more confusing every day. After all that has gone down in the offseason, when Ben returned to the team, it seemed like he did not intend to play nice. He got the boot and was even suspended from their season opener.
Then, Joel Embiid expressed his anger at Simmons but later took it all back. However, Simmons stuck to his stance, claiming he wasn’t mentally and physically fit to go back to playing. Everyone thought that this was a crazy move as he would be fined for not coming to play. But now, Philly has refused to fine him, only because there are personal reasons for him to be missing out on practice and games.
The Sixers have stopped fining Ben Simmons for missed games and practices given that he is now out for personal reasons, one source close to the situation says, confirming a report this afternoon from @ramonashelburne on the NBA Today.
More from me: https://t.co/A6ycVmnrjq
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) October 25, 2021
WATCH THIS STORY: Michael Jordan’s ‘The Last Dance’, LeBron James’ ‘More Than a Game’ & Other Must Watch NBA Documentaries
Is this their way of extending a friendly hand?
The 76ers’ start to the new season hasn’t been so bad. However, their loss against the Brooklyn Nets highlighted the missing piece in their time more than ever. If they had Simmons, that matchup could have ended differently. Upon realizing this, it seems like the 76ers want to do everything they can to end the bitterness between the two.
Daryl Morey said, “Ben came in at the end of last week and said he had back stiffness and he’s dealing with some personal reasons off the court. Both we take very seriously, we’re working with Ben to provide every resource to help him with what is needed.
“He spoke to his teammates, things seem to be moving very much in a positive direction. We’re going to provide all the resources, give Ben what he needs, and get him out there as soon as we can.”
May 31, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) reacts after the basket during the first quarter against the Washington Wizards during game four in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
As of now, a trade looks possible only towards the mid of December. Until then, fans can only hope the two parties reconcile and give it another shot. Or Ben will hope to sit it out as long as he is moved. What do you think will come first?
The post Philadelphia 76ers Make Surprising Decision on Ben Simmons Despite Initial Strong Stance appeared first on EssentiallySports.
