Ben Simmons Has Lost More Than $19 Million Via Fines From 76ers

The Ben Simmons saga is proving costly for both Simmons and the 76ers, but mostly for Simmons.

According to Ramona Shelburne of ESPN, Simmons has been fined more than $19 million for failing to report or take part in practices with the 76ers this season. Both Simmons and the 76ers are seeking a trade of the star guard/forward.

Simmons only briefly attended practice at the beginning of the season, but was thrown out by coach Doc Rivers for failing to check in to a drill. He has skipped the vast majority of team functions since.

While the 76ers are said to be exploring multiple trades, it remains uncertain if they will move Simmons ahead of the Feb. 10 trade deadline. Multiple reports have speculated a Simmons trade may not occur until the offseason.

As for the matter of money, it appears Simmons’ camp isn’t all that concerned.

“We don’t give a f— about the money,” a source close to Simmons told Shelburne. “That’s not what this is. It’s hard for people to understand. But if you believe in what you’re doing and that this is not the right situation for you, and you’re trying to get to a better place, the money doesn’t matter. Obviously it’s a financial hit. But you adjust.”

The Hornets, Pistons, Spurs, Trail Blazers, Raptors, Kings, Pacers and Timberwolves are among the many teams that are believed to have an interest in a Simmons trade. However, recent reports suggest the 76ers may be holding out until the summer to see if they can land Nets star James Harden in a sign-and-trade arrangement.

“As an unvaccinated player, Simmons had to take a daily COVID-19 test in order to enter the facility,” RealGM wrote. “But that requirement was dropped after sources say Simmons chose to get vaccinated.”