As the Philadelphia 76ers fight for wins on the basketball court, they continue to be engaged in an intense battle off the court.
Since requesting a trade over the summer, Ben Simmons has refused to participate in team-related activities by pointing to mental health issues as the reason for his absence.
Needless to say, it’s an excuse the 76ers (and a lot of others) aren’t buying. At the very least, the team is not okay with the way Simmons has handled his alleged mental health problems.
And now, after incurring multiple fines, Ben is receiving another one by the team — this time, for not traveling with them during their six-game road trip.
(via Shams Charania)
“The Philadelphia 76ers are fining Ben Simmons for failing to travel on their six-game road trip, sources tell me. Simmons believes the team continues to try and force him back on the floor despite his mental health concerns and are disregarding his mental health issues.
But the team’s positioning has been that until there’s information otherwise from their mental health specialists or Simmons, he should be expected to ramp back up for a return to the court. As Simmons’ agent, Rich Paul, told me last week, this is no longer about a trade, but Simmons receiving the help off the court that he needs. But, for now, the fines and the stalemate continue.”
The Philadelphia 76ers have fined Ben Simmons for failing to travel on their six-game road trip, sources say. Details: pic.twitter.com/PEStgby08j
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 16, 2021
The situation with Simmons and the 76ers continues to grow more volatile by the day and, as Daryl Morey maintains his aggressive stance, it will likely only turn off Simmons and his camp even more.
“I truly believe the fines, the targeting, the negative publicity shined on the issue — that’s very unnecessary and has furthered the mental health issues for Ben,” Klutch Sports CEO, and Simmons’ agent, Rich Paul said last week. “Either you help Ben, or come out and say he’s lying. Which one is it?”
At this point, the saga can only end one way: with Ben Simmons wearing another team’s jersey. It’s just a matter of time.
The only question is, what else will transpire before the trade is pulled off?
