The drama continued on Tuesday with Ben Simmons as Sixers head coach Doc Rivers tossed him from practice. As a result, the Aussie was suspended for their season opener on Wednesday against the New Orleans Pelicans due to “detrimental conduct.”
Shortly after, Rivers explained his actions. Via Kevin McCormick of ClutchPoints:
Doc Rivers said he kicked Ben Simmons out because he felt he was being a distraction.
— Kevin McCormick (@KevinMcCNBA) October 19, 2021
Doc Rivers: “at the end of the day, as a coach I have to protect the team”
— Kevin McCormick (@KevinMcCNBA) October 19, 2021
Simmons looked absolutely disengaged on Monday during practice with the Sixers and even refused to be a part of the team huddle. Clearly, that energy carried over to Tuesday. Rivers did say that Simmons will be welcomed back, though:
Doc Rivers says Ben Simmons will be welcomed at the team’s next practice.
— Kevin McCormick (@KevinMcCNBA) October 19, 2021
At this point, there really seems like no way of repairing the relationship. Simmons clearly has no interest in being in Philly, evident by his negative body language and energy. The Sixers have voiced their desire to fix things, but the fans aren't exactly supporting that notion.
There's a firm belief that Simmons is back with the team so he can rise his trade stock again after a historic collapse in the 2021 Playoffs. But in order to do that, he will have to find the desire and willingness to play on the Sixers, for the time being.
This situation continues to get worse. It will be very interesting to see how it will end, that's for sure.
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