As if things between Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers weren't bad enough, another layer has been added to the fiasco. According to Ramona Shelburne of ESPN, Simmons is willing to sit out the entire season for the Sixers to force a trade.
Ben Simmons is willing to sit as long as it takes to. When you talk to people close to Ben, I say ,”Okay, worst-case scenario it takes all year. Would he sit all year?” And the answer right now is: “Yes.”
For the Sixers, it forces their hand even more.
Shelburne also noted that the offers the Sixers are receiving currently for Simmons include draft picks and expiring contracts. It's been noted many times that Daryl Morey would prefer to exchange Simmons for another superstar so that Philly's title odds and hopes don't take a hit. At the moment, a trade like that seems pretty unrealistic to happen on Philadelphia's end.
It was no surprise that Simmons skipped out on Media Day for the Sixers and there aren't any signs that would indicate he intends to show up for training camp. The real test could come if the regular season starts and he still hasn't been traded by then. If he stays with the cold shoulder method, the pressure will be even heavier on Morey and Co. to make a trade happen. It's especially true if they are genuine in their comments about wanting to maximize their title window now.
The ball is now in the Sixers' court with Simmons' intentions being made very clear.
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