Ben Simmons, 76ers Seem Ready To Reunite Until Trade Is Found

October 23, 2021

The 76ers and star guard/forward Ben Simmons had a productive meeting that is expected to result in Simmons returning to the lineup soon, per Keith Pompey of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Of course, as Pompey added, Simmons could return “for the time being,” meaning both sides are likely operating with at least one eye on a trade. Simmons, 25, still is hopeful of being moved, sources told Hoops Wire on Friday.

But for now, all appears manageable.

“Simmons worked with the Sixers’ medical team during Friday’s shootaround but didn’t play in the game against the Nets,” Pompey reported. “The 25-year-old will continue to be evaluated by the Sixers, with the next steps being determined by medical professionals.”

Philadelphia is 1-1 on the season after falling to Brooklyn on Friday.

Simmons has barely worked out with teammates, being thrown out of practice by coach Doc Rivers for failing to enter a drill last week. Simmons was suspended for the first game as a result. But it seems all sides are willing to move forward until a deal is found.

“He is part of the team,” Rivers said, via Pompey. “I don’t know how many times I can say that. We have certain rules. Obviously, the other day that didn’t happen. But today was a good day.

“And I think … most people, we look at problems instead of the possibilities. I think if we focus on the possibilities in life in general, you have a pretty good chance of going to a good place.”

Simmons has also received vocal support from All-Star center Joel Embiid and forward Tobias Harris.

“Hopefully, they will figure out what’s best obviously for the team, because this is a business,” Embiid said. “We are trying to find ways to win.

“We have a big opportunity and like I always say, we are better with him. So I wouldn’t mind playing with him. I know my teammates also wouldn’t because at the end of the day, we are just trying to win.”

The Cavaliers, Timberwolves, Raptors, Spurs and Pistons are reportedly among as many as nine teams who have either pursued or are still exploring a Simmons trade. Sources have told Hoops Wire they expect an eventual Simmons deal to involve multiple teams.