The Ben Simmons saga with the Philadelphia Sixers has continued to take dramatic turns by the day.
On Thursday, Simmons reportedly arrived at the Sixers practice facility and did not take part in a scheduled individual workout. The All-Star guard noted to the Sixers medical staff that he is dealing with back tightness, although he was subsequently cleared to feature in the workout.
Even amid the continued refusal by Simmons to participate in any practices or workouts with the team, Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey is still not throwing in the towel on this saga with the All-Star guard.
In speaking to 97.5 The Fanatic, Morey noted that he is refusing to lower his asking price for Simmons due to one notable reason.
Right now if we traded Ben Simmons like he wants, all we would get back is role players, and that would make no sense. I would be prepared to strap in because it will take awhile. Simmons is a difference making player – @dmorey
— 975TheFanatic (@975TheFanatic) October 21, 2021
Ever since reports first surfaced that Simmons aimed to leave Philadelphia over the offseason, there have been a varying of rumors noting on just what Morey wants in return for the guard. For one, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski mentioned in July that Morey looked for a “Harden-esque” return. The Rockets notably shipped James Harden to the Brooklyn Nets last season for three first-round picks and four pick swaps.
Morey further added during his interview with 97.5 The Fanatic that this dilemma could last until the very end of Simmons' current contract run with the team.
In the big picture, Morey is not giving up on Simmons' time in Philadelphia and is much open to integrating him back into the team.
We are actually expecting him to be at shootaround tomorrow. Bottom line is Ben Simmons is a difference maker and we look forward to reintegrating him. We are just taking it 1 day at a time. – @dmorey
— 975TheFanatic (@975TheFanatic) October 21, 2021
For now, the Sixers are set to host the Brooklyn Nets tomorrow in a key early season clash between two Eastern Conference powerhouses.
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