The Philadelphia 76ers have had a drama-filled offseason and that drama seems to be spreading to the start of the regular season. Everyone knows that the drama has surrounded disgruntled NBA All-Star Ben Simmons, who has frequently been expected to be traded.
Now, the 76ers and especially Joel Embiid have had enough of Simmons’ drama. Following a practice on Tuesday that saw Doc Rivers kick Simmons out, Embiid made some brutal and scathing comments about his former friend and current teammate.
In a quote shared by NBC Sports Philadelphia, Embiid made it clear that he is over the issues Simmons is bringing to the team.
“At this point, I don’t care…I’m focused on trying to make the team better. At the end of the day, our job is not to babysit somebody. I get paid to deliver…the guys who are here are willing to help me, and I’m willing to help them. I’d be willing to babysit if someone wants to listen, but that’s not my job”
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Ben Simmons Update Gives Concerning Look At Return To 76ers
Wow, how the mighty have fallen. Just last season, the 76ers were the best team in the Eastern Conference and made a run to the Eastern Conference Finals. However, it appears that Simmons will be on his way out sooner rather than later.
There had been hopes that Simmons would return to the 76ers and buy in for another year. That has not been the case. His issue at practice was his unwillingness to participate in certain drills with his teammates.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Ben Simmons Update Gives Concerning Look At Return To 76ers
Assuming that the 76ers will now look to trade Simmons, there are a few teams that have been rumored as potential front-runners to acquire him. Among those front-runners are the Sacramento Kings, Toronto Raptors, and the Portland Trail Blazers. All three of those teams would be very intriguing destinations.
If Ben Simmons is happy and healthy, there is no question of the kind of impact he can make on a team. He is an elite defender, although his offensive game leaves a lot to be desired. But, it appears that the 76ers are getting close to being done with their former rising star.
LATEST NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Ben Simmons Update Gives Concerning Look At Return To 76ers
Expect to see Simmons begin the season with the Philadelphia 76ers, but with Joel Embiid no longer on his side, his departure might not be too far away.