How Long Will the Ben Simmons Circus Remain in Town?
How long are the Sixers willing to allow this Ben Simmons circus continue?
A source tells John Clark of NBC Sports Philadelphia, that the team continues to maintain that unless they get a player that will help them win a championship, they will not trade Simmons.
How long will they wait? Per Clark, four years.
I have maintained throughout this entire situation that Daryl Morey will not trade Simmons just to trade him. They will not move him to make the team different, only better, which is becoming harder and harder to do with Simmons not willing to be a professional and participate with his team.
The Sixers have no interest in moving Simmons, a player they value, unless its for a all-star level player, who can they can pair with Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris.
However, if Simmons truly wants out of Philadelphia, the quickest route is getting back on the floor and showcasing his skills to other teams. The last memory they have of him isn't a flattering one, so refreshing them on what he brings to the court is imperative to a quick exit.
Remember, Simmons has four years and just over $147 million remaining on his contract.
"He's got four years left on his contract, it's in our hands," said Sixers head coach Doc Rivers recently when asked about the situation.
Rivers kicked Simmons out of Tuesday's practice and the team suspend him for tonight's game with the New Orleans Pelicans for failing to engage in the practice. Per reports, Rivers asked Simmons to participate in a team drill,l Simmons refused, twice, before Rivers finally asked him to leave.
"I just thought he was a distraction today," Rivers explained. "I don't think he wanted to do what everybody else was doing."
However, Rivers did say that Simmons would be welcomed to return to practice on Thursday when the team prepares for the Brooklyn Nets.
"At the end of the day as the coach I have to protect the team," Rivers said. "The team first, then we get to the other part."
Stay tuned.