Simmons Suspended During Practice

The Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons seemed to be reaching an agreement after Simmons showed up to the 76ers facilities for practices. However, the seeming good news was not to be as Malika Andrews of ESPN reported that Simmons was suspended for their opening game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that the event that led to Simmons’ suspension was a refusal to participate in a team practice. Simmons was directed by Sixers head coach Doc Rivers to participate in a defensive drill, which Simmons refused to do.

When asked about it in post-practice availability, Rivers said that he felt Simmons was a distraction, per Tim Bontemps of ESPN.

Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported that Simmons has yet to be paid since returning to the team, and Simmons has been fined for a myriad of different reasons so far since his return, including missing several practices, workouts, and team meetings.

Simmons’ name has been repeatedly linked with the Portland Trail Blazers, as Daryl Morey has his eyes on Damian Lillard. However, Lillard shut down any speculation that he might consider leaving the Blazers any time soon.