Sixers’ Joel Embiid: We’re Not Paid To Babysit

All-Star center Joel Embiid said he is focused on the 76ers as a team, and not the occasional drama (and perhaps distraction) surrounding guard/forward Ben Simmons.

Embiid made his comments after Simmons was tossed from practice by coach Doc Rivers for refusing to enter a drill, as relayed by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.

“At this point, I don’t care about that man,” Embiid told reporters. “He does whatever he wants. That’s not my job. … I’m only focused on trying to make the team better.”

Embiid has gone back and forth in showing support for Simmons. His latest comments made it sound as if he’s a bit frustrated.

“At the end of the day, our job is not to babysit somebody,” Embiid said. “We get paid just on the court. Play hard. Win some games. That’s all we get paid for. We don’t get paid to come out here and try to babysit somebody. That’s not our job. I’m sure my teammates feel that way.”

Simmons, 25, has requested a trade and the 76ers apparently are trying to oblige. But right now, there have been no takers.

The Cavaliers, Rockets, Raptors and Pistons are reportedly among the teams in pursuit. You can read more about that on Hoops Wire right here.