NBA Rumors: Ben Simmons is thrown out of practice; future uncertain

NBA Rumors: Ben Simmons tries to force his way out of Philadelphia by making a mockery of practice. 

For a brief few days, it seemed as if the Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons were going to be able to coexist with each other. At the very least, to start the season. However, it’s almost as if Simmons was just waiting for the right opportunity to throw his next grenade – this time, from within team headquarters.

According to multiple reports, Simmons was so disengaged in practice – both physically and mentally – that he had to be sent home. Earlier this week, there was video footage of Simmons participating in practice – albeit in a lackluster manner – with his cell phone in his pocket.

Tuesday, Sixers head coach Doc Rivers had enough and simply sent the all-star home. Shortly after, it was reported that Simmons would be fined ($1.4 million in total) for his absence in four preseason games and for missed practices. He was also suspended for the team’s season opener.

A strike back from the team.

After practice, Rivers explained exactly what happened in perhaps the simplest of form. Essentially, Simmons didn’t want to be there. Which isn’t something that had not been reported. We finally got firm confirmation.

Simmons’ superstar teammate didn’t have much to say on the matter, other than the fact that he hasn’t spoken to Simmons and didn’t sound like someone who was willing to try. Joel Embiid seemed like he had enough of this song and dance and wanted to focus on the start of the season.

Though, something curiously, the Sixers’ front office thought it would be good to have Simmons back in the locker room and on the practice court. This seems like such a big misstep for the team.

The worst part of all this is that there doesn’t seem a resolution in sight. The Sixers, reportedly, still aren’t in any rush to trade Simmons, and Simmons, even after reporting to the team, doesn’t seem like he has any interest in playing for the Sixers.

Philadelphia was trying to buy time to find the right trade, but it’s looking more and more like that simply isn’t a plausible route to take.

The NBA’s regular season begins tonight and all eyes are on Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers. But, for all the wrong reasons.