After the Philadelphia 76ers were sent home packing by the Atlanta Hawks, head coach Doc Rivers raised doubts about the future of Ben Simmons with the team. However, it looks like the Sixers are still trying to make it work.
When Rivers refused to answer whether he still believes Simmons can be the point guard of a championship team, it only fueled speculations that he would be traded this offseason. Nonetheless, a day after their playoffs exit, the Sixers coach told reporters they already have plans in order to take Simmons' game to the next level.
“I believe we know what the right work is, and the right type of work and the right way to do it. You can do the work all the time but if it's not done in the right way, and the right type of work, you may not improve,” Rivers said on what will be different for the summer of the Sixers' star, per Derek Bodner of The Athletic.
Ben Simmons has largely been blamed for the Sixers' Game 7 failure, scoring only five points while recording eight rebounds and 13 assists. The Aussie playmaker admitted he struggled offensively–not only in his free throws–throughout the playoffs, which is why he's planning to work on his shortcomings in the offseason.
With that said, Brian Windhorst of ESPN reported that Simmons is doubtful to play for Australia in the Olympics as he looks to spend the offseason working on his game.
Ben Simmons is doubtful to play for Australia in Tokyo Olympics, sources said. Will spend offseason working on skill development. Aussies scheduled to begin training this week in L.A.
— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) June 21, 2021
It remains to be seen what the Sixers will do with Simmons, and a trade is certainly still possible. Besides, Joel Embiid and his fellow All-Star don't seem to mesh well.
Philly will have several decisions to make as they navigate another tough offseason, and fans might very well see a new-look team come the 2021-22 campaign.
Follow Us
Subscribe