Head Coach Doc Rivers and the Philadelphia 76ers have suspended star Ben Simmons for their season opener for “detrimental conduct”. Simmons was thrown out of practice on Tuesday and the suspension quickly followed that move. The NBA offseason has been filled with news and drama surrounding Simmons wh recently reversed course and decided to return to Philadelphia. Tension between the two sides continues to mount and it seems inevitable that a trade will happen at some point this season.
The 76ers say Ben Simmons has been suspended for one game for “detrimental conduct” to the team.
Simmons will not play the 76ers’ season opener at New Orleans Wednesday night.
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) October 19, 2021
Simmons’ reluctance to physically and mentally engage with the Sixers since his return has been a consistent theme, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/bG1Cs2EuZ4
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 19, 2021
The Ben Simmons saga continues to be frustrating for the Philadelphia 76ers heading into the season. While he has returned to the team it seems only part of him has indeed checked back into basketball. Reports from practice have the disgruntled guard barely putting in effort while wearing sweatpants with his phone in his pocket. It seems that Doc Rivers finally has enough on Tuesday.
Ben Simmons practicing in sweatpants with his phone in his pocket. pic.twitter.com/MEdQLxudcK
— Jeff Eisenband (@JeffEisenband) October 18, 2021
For now, Simmons is on the Philadelphia roster, but he seems determined to make it miserable for himself and those around him. Sitting out didn’t get him what get wanted and this seems like a new strategy to get away from the 76ers. This is likely not impacting his trade value very well at the moment. We here at Def Pen Sports will continue to update you on the Ben Simmons story.
